Langdale Chase Hotel, Windermere - Historic Tynecastle Canvas Wallpapers Restored
The Langdale Chase Hotel sits in an enviable position on the shores of Lake Windermere. Following a multi-million pound refurbishment the hotel reopened its doors to guests in November ‘23. Frank was privileged to play a small part in its continuing evolution when he was asked to restore and refinish what was thought to be Lincrusta in the lounges.
We delved into our archives and discovered these embossed canvas wallpapers, friezes, dado and decorative ceiling are all rare survivors, thought to be original to when the house was built in 1891. The Tynecastle Tapestry designs, were manufactured by William Scott Morton & Company, Edinburgh, founded in 1870. The remarkable Arts and Crafts style frieze in the Oak Room resembles old Scotch plaster. William Scott Morton, greatly influenced by the English Arts and Crafts movement, was at the forefront of developing wallcoverings that imitated leather, stucco or carved wood.
See our photo gallery below, including Tynecastle Tapestry archive images, before and after the repairs and refinishing with a subtle two-tone glaze to highlight the relief by Frank Holmes Fine Decor.
Imitation Leather Wallpaper
William Scott Morton embarked on a European study tour c.1881-2. Following his return, the Scott Morton (Tynecastle) Company Ltd developed imitation leather wallpapers inspired by Italian and Spanish leather wall hangings. This surviving piece was rediscovered behind an over-mantle during renovations at Langdale Chase Hotel in 2023. Still in remarkable condition, apart from a squashed nose on the cherub, Frank saved it from being thrown in the skip and it is now part of own small archive collection. Tynecastle pattern no.2028.
