William Morris

The legacy of William Morris ensures that even to this day, his iconic patterns are much-loved classics and his influence on interior design is as strong as it’s ever been. It was assumed that all his patterns had seen the light of day – however, this was not the case.

Hidden Treasures Vol 1 is a collection from Midbec Tapeter. It features five less well-known Morris patterns, two classics we’ve recreated in new colours and a forgotten pattern that has never been in commercial production and until now.

William Morris was known for his distinct visual language in art and design, which was strongly influenced by his interest in nature and the Middle Ages. His designs were often characterised by patterns inspired by –

• Flowers
• Vines
• Birds
• Other motifs from nature

Morris preferred symmetry and harmony in his compositions and often used repetition and geometric forms to create balance.

He was a champion of handicrafts and the pursuit of quality, which was reflected in his use of traditional techniques such as hand-printing and hand-weaving to create his textiles and wallpapers. In addition, he also used rich, deep colours to add a luxurious feeling and timeless quality to his work.

Morris strived to create designs that were both beautiful and functional, producing work that was defined by simplicity and elegance and is still appreciated to this day. His design language set a high value on the use of skilled handicrafts and shone a spotlight on the beauty of nature. In its era, this was considered groundbreaking and his approach continues to inspire designers and artists across the world.