We were lucky enough to be invited to Madresfield Court in the spring of 2023; the stunning private home of the Lygon family for almost 900 years. Commissioned to create pressed flower windows for a new restaurant in Malvern by the current custodian Lucy Chenevix-Trench, we picked species from the grounds and took inspiration from the exquisitely painted in-house chapel.
The redecoration of the chapel, commissioned in 1902 by the 7th Countess, is considered to be the most important example of decorative painting and probably the most famous of all the Arts and Crafts schemes from the Birmingham Group. Designed and painted by Henry Payne, the chapel became a twenty year project for him and his three young assistants. Every inch of woodwork is covered in intricately painted detailing akin to a Romany wagon. Forty-six different species found growing on the estate are featured; rambling roses and honeysuckle scramble up the walls to the organ gallery, whilst cowslips and harebells chime in from the side panels.
Inspired by past generations of her family, and with a keen eye for beauty and detail, Lucy continues to commission artists to make pieces for the house and restaurant. We are proud to have played a tiny part in her vision.
You must visit Madresfield Court if ever you get the chance; the house is open to the public from the end of April to the end of June, booking ahead is essential. You can also take a virtual tour of the chapel with artist Tess Newall online at Create Academy - a free taster lesson in which Tess shows you how she takes inspiration from the chapel for her own work.
To learn more about our process of gathering, pressing, and making artworks with pressed flowers, take a look at our online course with Create Academy, or explore our in-person workshops. If you would like to discuss a commission, whether for your own home or for an interiors project, please do get in touch.