Cole And Son - A Story Of Wallcoverings And Design

Transforming a living space, giving it a fresh feel, often starts with the walls. There is something truly special about how a well-chosen pattern or a particular shade can completely change the atmosphere of a room. It is, perhaps, about finding that perfect backdrop for daily life, a design that speaks to you and makes your home feel like your own private haven.

When thinking about making a home feel special, the options for wall decoration are quite varied, and a good wallpaper choice can make a significant impact. It is, you know, a way to bring a sense of personality and a bit of artistry to any interior. Finding that just-right design, something that feels unique and adds real character, can sometimes seem like a bit of a search, yet the reward is truly worth the effort.

For those who appreciate the finer points of interior decoration, a name that often comes up is Cole and Son. This company, with its long history, has been a significant presence in the world of wallcoverings for a very long time. They have, in some respects, become known for offering patterns and colors that feel both current and like they have always been around, bringing a sense of lasting beauty to many different kinds of homes.

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History and Heritage of Cole and Son

The story of Cole and Son is one that stretches back quite a distance, beginning in the year 1875. This was a time when the creation of wallpapers was a true craft, with many small businesses dedicated to hand block printing. It is, actually, rather interesting to consider how much the world has changed since then, yet the foundation of this company has remained strong, built on a dedication to design and quality.

The Beginnings of Cole and Son

John Perry started Cole and Son in 1875. He chose Islington, a part of North London, as the place for his new venture. This particular area was, you see, quite well-known during the 18th and 19th centuries for having many hand block printing companies. There were, as a matter of fact, about 190 of these businesses operating there, making it a real center for this kind of work. This background really helped shape what Cole and Son would become, giving them a rich connection to the way things were done in the past.

From these early days, Cole and Son began to build something truly special. They started gathering a collection of historical patterns and also found new inspirations to create their designs. This combination of looking back at what came before and thinking about what could be next has, in a way, helped Cole and Son's wallpapers to keep surprising and pleasing people who own homes and those who design interiors. It is a continuous effort to blend the old with the new, making sure their offerings always feel fresh yet also deeply rooted in a sense of history.

What Makes Cole and Son's Archive So Special?

A big part of what makes Cole and Son stand out is their truly impressive collection of designs from the past. This collection, their archive, holds a vast number of different types of patterns and drawings. It includes, for instance, around 1,800 block print designs and about 350 screen print designs. There is, too, a very large amount of original drawings and actual wallpapers that show styles from the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. This means they have a broad picture of how designs have changed over time.

Amongst all these pieces, you can find some of the most significant historical wallpaper designs in existence. These are not just old patterns; they are, in fact, important examples of design from different periods. Cole and Son has, you know, used this extensive history to keep creating new items while also honoring the past. This deep well of inspiration means that every design they put out has a connection to a long tradition of artistry, making each piece feel like a small part of a larger story. It is, perhaps, what gives their wallcoverings a feeling of lasting quality and interest.

Exploring the Artistry of Cole and Son

The creation of a wallpaper pattern is a thoughtful process, and with Cole and Son, it often involves looking at what has been done before while also thinking about what is current. They are known for putting together collections that feel very put-together, combining different patterns and shades in a way that just works. It is, in some respects, about finding that perfect balance between something new and something that feels familiar and comforting.

How Do Cole and Son Designs Come to Life?

When Cole and Son creates new designs, they often draw ideas from a variety of sources. Sometimes, the inspiration comes from the textures found in buildings, like the surfaces of old metal, pieces of wood, smooth marble, or even the rough feel of concrete. These everyday materials, you see, can spark ideas for patterns that feel both new and connected to the world around us. It is, actually, a way of bringing elements of the outside in, making the walls feel like they have a story.

Other times, their designs come from transforming things that collectors might find interesting, turning these curious items into beautiful wallcoverings. This process often involves taking pieces from their vast archive and combining them with fresh, new ideas. So, what you get is a mix of traditional methods and contemporary feelings, resulting in designs that have a kind of timeless appeal. It is, very much, about creating something that feels right for today while also holding a piece of history.

For example, the Nuvole design came from an etching of clouds, creating a sky-like scene that feels very open and atmospheric. This particular design is also available in a smaller size, offering a bit of flexibility. When it comes to certain types of their wallcoverings, like those made of silk, grasscloth, or flock, it is important to remember that wiping them down is not something they suggest. This just goes to show that each material has its own care needs, which is something to keep in mind when choosing a design from Cole and Son.

Finding Your Unique Look with Cole and Son

Cole and Son offers a wide variety of wallcoverings, making it easier to find something that truly fits your personal style and the feeling you want for your home. You can look through their many different collections, each with its own styles, shades, and patterns. It is, you know, about finding that special piece that adds character and a sense of uniqueness to any room, whether it is in your home or even an office space.

They have a reputation for creating designs that are both beautiful and have a real presence. For instance, you can find wallcoverings with woodland and forest patterns, like their Woods wallpaper, which could work well in many different kinds of rooms. The idea is to give people options that allow them to make their spaces feel personal and inviting. It is, essentially, about bringing a bit of art and personality to the walls, making them more than just plain surfaces.

Signature Collections from Cole and Son

Over the years, Cole and Son has put out many collections, each with its own distinct personality. These collections often feature patterns that have become quite popular and are recognized for their unique charm. It is, perhaps, one of the reasons why so many people turn to Cole and Son when they are looking to add something truly special to their homes. They have a knack for creating designs that capture the imagination and stand the test of time.

What Iconic Designs Does Cole and Son Offer?

Among their many offerings, Cole and Son has some truly beloved designs that have become quite famous. The Icons collection, for example, brings together some of these well-known patterns, celebrating their enduring appeal. This collection includes favorites like the Woods design, charming hummingbirds, graceful palm leaves, and playful flamingos. These designs are presented with a color palette that feels very bright and inspired by the 1950s Miami style, giving them a touch of old-world glamour.

Another collection, called Contemporary Restyled, features designs by David Hicks. This includes his well-known hexagon patterns, which some might recognize from the movie "The Shining." This particular collection also has the Cow Parsley wallpaper from Cole and Son, showing their range. There is also the Fornasetti Senza Tempo collection, which is a classic set of famous designs. These examples show how Cole and Son brings together a mix of historical influence and a fresh outlook, making their wallcoverings appealing to many different tastes. It is, in a way, about giving a nod to the past while also looking to the present.

The company also has a special Jubilee Year collection, which marks a celebration of their 150th anniversary. This collection is the first of two volumes of classics. It is made up of designs that have been part of the Cole and Son archive since the company began in 1875. These patterns, printed in the traditional manner, are a wonderful example of British art and the skill involved in making them. They really do offer a kind of peek into the history of design. Furthermore, the Seville wallpaper collection from Cole and Son provides another source of inspiration, offering beautiful designs suitable for different rooms in a home or office.

When you look at the extensive collection of Cole and Son, you find designs like the elegant hummingbirds and the delicate sweet pea. Each of these patterns was picked because it has a timeless quality. The colors used in these collections are clear and modern, which means the designs look good in both traditional and contemporary homes. This careful selection ensures that whether your home is old or new, there is a design from Cole and Son that will feel right at home there. It is, you know, about making sure their patterns can fit into any kind of living space, adding a touch of lasting beauty.

Where Can You Find Cole and Son Wallcoverings?

If you are looking to bring some of Cole and Son's unique designs into your own home, there are several ways to do so. They are a well-known European brand, with a history going back to 1875, and their products are available in many places. You can often find their wallpapers and fabrics in a wide range of colors, patterns, and styles, making it easier to pick something that works for your home's decoration. It is, essentially, about making their beautiful designs accessible to those who appreciate them.

For those in the United States, shopping for Cole and Son products in USD is an option. When products are shipped to the USA, the shipping cost usually includes any duties and taxes, which can make the process simpler. If you need help with anything, you can always reach out to their client service team by calling them directly. They are there to assist with any questions you might have about their products or how to find them. This direct support is, you know, a way to ensure a smooth experience for anyone interested in their wallcoverings.

To find a place near you that sells Cole and Son items, you can use their partner locator. You just type in your location or move around on the map to see which trusted partners are closest to you. This makes it quite convenient to discover where you can see their wallpaper books in person, which can really help you find your inspiration for a project. It is, perhaps, the best way to get a real feel for the designs and see how they might look in your own space, allowing you to choose something that truly sparks your interest.

Cole and Son has a long and interesting history, starting in 1875 in Islington, North London. They have provided wallcoverings for many well-known historic houses, including Buckingham Palace, which just goes to show the quality and reputation they have built over the years. Their collections represent styles from across many centuries and include some of the most historically important wallpaper designs in the entire world. From the collector's curiosities that become wallcoverings to their collaborations and commitment to how they operate, Cole and Son continues to be a significant presence in home decoration. They offer a vast portfolio of designs, featuring modern classics like the Palm Jungle with its lush leaves and David Hicks's geometric hexagons, all put together in an elegant way that combines patterns and colors from both traditional and contemporary styles. This broad selection means there is truly something special for any home, allowing you to find unique designs and character that feel just right.

Cole & Son - Luxury Wallpaper and Fabric

Cole & Son - Luxury Wallpaper and Fabric

Cole & Son - Luxury Wallpaper and Fabric

Cole & Son - Luxury Wallpaper and Fabric

Chelsea make contact over signing Cole Palmer 2.0 in £34m-rated star

Chelsea make contact over signing Cole Palmer 2.0 in £34m-rated star

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