A slice of Interior Decoration History

Some time ago I bought this folder at a Flea Market. Inside I was delighted to find these beautiful images of interiors. The artist is Watson Charlton, there is very little information about him. I would guess these images date from the 1920's or 30's.

On each page there are close up views of the textiles to be used to create such an interior. Sadly some of the pages are damaged by water so that the colours are not as crisp as they may be.

This one (above) is described as "Bradstowe" - Hollyhock Cretonne 3/6 per yard from Messrs Skinner and Son . 46 High Street, Broadstairs.

The Oak Dining Room has curtains made from "Egmont Taffeta" at 3/11 per yard from Messrs. Williamson and Cole, 26 High Street, Clapham, London.

Probably my favourite, this green bedroom . "The coolness of the green makes this a delightful room on the sunniest day, and the gay rose colour is bright at all times". The fabric used is Green Stripe Cretonne at 2/6 per yard from Waring and Gillow in Oxford Street, London.

Sadly the picture of this bedroom has got a lot of water damage, but I felt I had to include it as it so typical of the period between the wars.

"A Vieux Rose Bedroom" using "Old Bleach Linen, an ideal material for hangings and bedspread. Its softness makes such graceful folds that the simplest curtains look charming."

Above is "Tulip" Cretonne 2/6 per yard. It is used on the sofa and curtains in The Flower Room. (below) I love the description that accompany it. "Flower paintings, beside being a delight to the eye, can  be immensely important items in the furnishing of a room"

An English Room.

 This quintessentially English room is so evocative of the 1930's don't you think?

The fabric (below) is " Autumn Garland" Cretonne 2/11 per yard

"This Cottage Style room (below) will make many a housewife whisper: That is just the cheerful type of colour scheme our room wants" 

Lastly it is suggested that "Checks" are used for the kitchen. The curtains are made from "Sunregina Loom cotton and the paintwork is painted orange yellow, while the walls and ceiling are enamelled a lighter hue".