Exploring Little Greene's Updated Historic Wallpaper Patterns

British interiors brand Little Greene is a name synonymous with craftsmanship, authenticity, and design excellence. Celebrated for their exquisite range of paints and wallpapers, the company is deeply rooted in British design heritage. They’ve recently updated their historic wallpaper collection bringing an air of modernity to the traditional styles. While always respecting the past, the pops of color and updated scales further enhance these timeless patterns.

Walnut Wallpaper is proud to be the exclusive showroom for Little Greene in North America. Let’s explain the evolution of Little Green’s historic wallpaper lines, and the significance of the updates that continue to excite design enthusiasts around the world.

 

Little Greene: A Legacy of Design Excellence

Founded in the 18th century in Manchester, Little Greene draws its name from its original location, The Little Greene Dye Works. While its beginnings were steeped in fabric dyeing, the brand’s evolution into a purveyor of high-quality paints and wallpapers has seen it become a cornerstone of British design.

What sets Little Greene apart is its dedication to history and sustainability. The brand collaborates closely with the National Trust and other heritage organizations, to unearth authentic patterns from the past. These collaborations allow Little Greene to produce designs that reflect significant periods in British design, from Georgian restraint to Victorian opulence and mid-20th-century modernism.

 

The Historic Wallpaper Collection

Little Greene’s historic wallpaper collection is a treasure trove of designs inspired by centuries-old patterns, many of which have been painstakingly restored and updated for modern use. The collection spans multiple time periods, each with its distinct aesthetic and story.

Georgian Simplicity

The Georgian era (1714–1837) was characterized by elegance and balance, and this is reflected in the wallpapers of the time. Little Greene’s interpretations of Georgian designs emphasize symmetry, delicate florals, and restrained use of color. Patterns like 'Reverie' feature soft, scrolling botanicals that echo the neoclassical tastes of the era.

Regency Grandeur

The Regency period is known for boldness and luxury, which is reflected in intricate damask patterns and rich colorways. Little Greene’s updates to this period often highlight the interplay between architectural motifs and organic elements, with designs like 'Brodsworth' that reinterpret stately home aesthetics for contemporary interiors.

Victorian Splendor

The Victorian era saw an explosion of pattern and color, fueled by advancements in printing technology. Little Greene captures this decorative opulence with richly detailed floral and geometric designs such as 'Vine,' a tribute to the naturalistic styles of the mid-19th century.

Art Deco and Mid-Century Influences

The collection also includes wallpapers inspired by the 20th century’s design movements, such as Art Deco’s glamour and the clean, modern lines of post-war mid-century design. Patterns like 'Camellia' reinterpret the simplicity and refinement of this era while offering fresh, contemporary colorways.

 

A Journey Through Time: Updated Historic Patterns

Little Greene’s updated historic patterns breathe new life into their archival designs, merging meticulous restoration with modern sensibilities. These updates involve refining scale, color palettes, and print techniques to ensure the designs resonate with today’s interiors while staying true to their origins.

Modernized Color Palettes

One of the standout features of Little Greene’s updated wallpapers is their expanded color palette. While the original designs had a limited range of hues due to historical printing constraints, today’s technologies allow the brand to introduce a richer array of colors. This enables designers to tailor these timeless patterns to both traditional and contemporary spaces.

For example, 'Fern'—a Victorian-inspired design—has been updated with softer, more muted tones alongside bolder, modern colorways. The versatility of these palettes allows for seamless integration into minimalist spaces or more maximalist, eclectic interiors.

Enhanced Scale and Proportions

Updating scale is another important consideration for Little Greene. Historic wallpapers were typically designed for high-ceilinged period homes, with patterns that might overwhelm smaller, modern rooms. Little Greene addresses this by resizing patterns to suit contemporary living spaces while preserving the essence of the original designs.

Take 'Renaissance,' a design inspired by a 17th-century leather wall covering. The updated version features a carefully adjusted scale that maintains its grandeur without dominating a room.

Sustainable Printing Practices

True to their commitment to sustainability, Little Greene ensures that all their wallpapers are printed with water-based inks on FSC-certified papers. This not only reduces the environmental impact of production but also aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly home decor.

 

Designing with Little Greene Wallpapers

The beauty of Little Greene’s historic wallpapers lies in their versatility. Whether used as a focal point or a subtle backdrop, these designs can transform spaces with their rich narratives and visual appeal. Here are some creative ways to incorporate Little Greene wallpapers into your home:

Feature Walls

Create a striking feature wall with bold patterns like 'Brodsworth' or 'Hollyhocks.' These intricate designs draw the eye and add depth to living rooms, dining spaces, or bedrooms.

Layering Patterns

For those who love maximalism, Little Greene’s wallpapers pair beautifully with their paint range. Combine a vibrant wallpaper with a complementary trim color, or layer multiple patterns for a dramatic effect.

Subtle Elegance

For a more understated look, opt for smaller-scale patterns in neutral tones, such as 'Reverie' in a soft beige or cream. These designs work wonderfully in home offices or reading nooks, creating a serene atmosphere.

Framing Panels

Another creative use of wallpaper is to frame it within wall panels or moldings. This technique works particularly well with designs inspired by period homes, emphasizing their heritage appeal.

 

Celebrating British Craftsmanship

Little Greene’s updated historic patterns are more than just wallpapers; they are a celebration of British craftsmanship and history. Each design tells a story, offering a window into the artistry and cultural influences of its time. By updating these patterns, Little Greene ensures that this heritage continues to inspire while catering to the evolving tastes of today’s interiors.

 

A Timeless Choice for Every Interior

Whether your style leans towards the classical or the contemporary, Little Greene’s historic wallpaper collection offers something for everyone. The updated patterns retain their historical integrity while meeting the practical and aesthetic needs of modern interiors. With a focus on sustainability, quality, and design innovation, Little Greene continues to be a trusted name for those seeking to imbue their spaces with elegance and character.