Ceiling décor | Then and now
FROM THE SISTINE CHAPEL TO THE PALACE OF VERSAILLES, THE CEILING HAS BEEN USED THROUGH THE CENTURIES AS A SHOW OF WEALTH AND A CANVAS FOR SOME OF THE MOST PROMINENT STORIES OF MYTHOLOGY AND RELIGION, EACH REFLECTING THE CULTURAL CONTEXT OF THEIR TIME. BUT WHY HAVE THESE SPACESUTILISED THE FIFTH WALL AND WHAT SIGNIFICANCE HAS IT REPRESENTED OVER TIME?
HEAVENLY DESIGN
The Vatican’s world-famous Sistine Chapel fresco by Michelangelo, commissioned by Pope Julius II in 1508 took four years to complete and illustrates much of the doctrine of the Catholic Church. A dramatisation unlike any other, Michelangelo’s high renaissance art created an immersive experience which aimed to elevate worshippers' prayer through art that was considered closer to heaven.
COMPLEMENTING ARCHITECTURE
Historical architecture is a subject close to our hearts and varying ceiling styles from vaulted cathedrals to Roman domes demonstrate the impressive and innovative architectural elements used over time. Working to decorate these vast ceiling spaces, some artists used techniques such as trompe-l'œil, giving the illusion of grander scale. Others beckoned viewers to look up and admire not only the art but the incredible architecture supporting it.
MAKING A STATEMENT
Without doubt the most famous of all the rooms at The Palace of Versailles is The Hall of Mirrors. Dating back to the 1660’s, this striking room pays tribute to the domestic, political, and military success of France under Louis XIV. The ceiling comprises 30 works of art each depicting stories of victory and prestige. Any visitor to this room would have been in little doubt of the power and achievement of France’s absolute monarchy. Quite the historical PR piece!
SOCIAL STATUS
It is not just paintings which have adorned ceilings in the hope to impress those that visit. From ancient times, through to the Georgian and Victorian era, decorative plasterwork has been used as a mark of social status. Highly ornate plasterworks were used to amplify the grandeur of the room and showcase high levels of craftsmanship. We take great pride in restoring and where required reinstating these stunning details to much the same effect.
Fast forward to present day and we still see the ceiling playing a pivotal role in luxury contemporary interiors, whether it be the use of colour, wallcoverings or experimenting with fabrics. The ceiling is an integral part of the design helping to elevate a space. You can see more of the ceilings we admire over on our curated Pinterest board.
It is well documented that flowers have a special kind of power. Whether sent in celebration of a significant moment or as a beautifully curated and luxurious floral experience for your home, alluring blooms with their scent, colour and symmetry bring genuine joy, beauty and meaning on a profound level. As designers we look to take a multi-sensory approach to our super-prime brief, creating designs that go beyond the aesthetic to reflect deeper meaning and ‘Thoughtful Luxury’ in practice. Selecting the right flower, arrangement style and scent is critical, and no one does it better or crafts living works of floral art, quite like Neill Strain. Here we talk to Neill about how it all begun, and why he believes working in the industry is a real privilege.
It is well documented that flowers have a special kind of power. Whether sent in celebration of a significant moment or as a beautifully curated and luxurious floral experience for your home, alluring blooms with their scent, colour and symmetry bring genuine joy, beauty and meaning on a profound level. As designers we look to take a multi-sensory approach to our super-prime brief, creating designs that go beyond the aesthetic to reflect deeper meaning and ‘Thoughtful Luxury’ in practice. Selecting the right flower, arrangement style and scent is critical, and no one does it better or crafts living works of floral art, quite like Neill Strain. Here we talk to Neill about how it all begun, and why he believes working in the industry is a real privilege.
Our homes have always been our sanctuaries, but this cherished space has become all the more important as a result of the pandemic
Our homes have always been our sanctuaries, but this cherished space has become all the more important as a result of the pandemic
One of our greatest assets is our little black book of trusted artisans and makers who believe in championing hand crafted techniques and are as passionate about delivering the world’s finest, as we are. It was at Walpole’s launch of ‘luxury in the making’ that we had the pleasure of hearing Richard Brendon speak passionately about British heritage craftsmanship and what needs to be done to ensure it survives. Here we talk to Richard about his beautifully crafted tableware that perfectly bridges the gap between traditional craft and contemporary design and the passion he has for all things food and drink.
One of our greatest assets is our little black book of trusted artisans and makers who believe in championing hand crafted techniques and are as passionate about delivering the world’s finest, as we are. It was at Walpole’s launch of ‘luxury in the making’ that we had the pleasure of hearing Richard Brendon speak passionately about British heritage craftsmanship and what needs to be done to ensure it survives. Here we talk to Richard about his beautifully crafted tableware that perfectly bridges the gap between traditional craft and contemporary design and the passion he has for all things food and drink.