William Morris & Red House: A Collaboration Between Architect and Owner

by Jan Marsh

Red House occupies a singular place in British architectural history—it was the first and only house that was built for designer William Morris, and it was the first independent architectural commission for his friend, Philip Webb. The challenge of furnishing the house inspired Morris and his Pre-Raphaelite friends to found the design firm of Morris & Co., which was the flagship for what was to become the Arts & Crafts movement. Because of its illustrious first owner, Red House was never forgotten, and a succession of tenants kept Morris’ spirit alive in the house; in 2003, Red House was acquired for the National Trust. This handsome volume provides both the story of Red House and a "virtual tour" that enables the reader to see how this splendid house looked and functioned when it was inhabited by the celebrated designer.

Genres: Art, Interior Design, Architecture, History

160 pages, Hardcover

Published November 1, 2005

Reviews

[Hon Lady Selene · Rating 5 out of 5]

In February 1862 Burne-Jones wrote that "Morris thrives through bandy, and is slowly making Red House the beautifullest place on Earth."

However, Morris found early on that the house proved too expensive to run and did not suit his lifestyle. After five years, he moved his family to a flat in Queen Square, Bloomsbury.

Being north-facing, the interior of the house was cold during winter, which aggravated Morris' various medical conditions, and the isolated location in Bexleyheath made it difficult for doctors to visit. Pieces of furniture which proved too difficult to move to their new home were left in Red House, where some of them are still present, for example the settle in the front hallway decorated by Morris with illustrations from the medieval German epic Niebelungenlied.

Morris never returned to visit the Red House, commenting that the sight of it would be too emotional for him.

A number of Morris' friends visited, most notably the Pre-Raphaelite painters Edward Burne-Jones and Dante Gabriel Rossetti, both of whom aided him in decorating the House; various Burne-Jones wall murals remain.

A more recently discovered mural in the master bedroom is said to be a collaborative effort, with contributions from Morris, Rossetti, Elizabeth Siddal, and Ford Madox Brown.

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mostly information I'd already read (which doesn't make it any less interesting), but there are also some unique shots of Red House. The photos of Red House after Morris were especially interesting.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Admitted William Morris fangirl here....this was a good read, insightful and detailed. Looking forward to seeing the home in person someday.

[Johanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good background reading if you are interested in finding out about Victorian living/society/interior design.

[Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

A history of red House from its design and building for William Morris until today. Beautiful colour photographs.