Edward Bulmer is a man of many talents: interior designer, architectural historian, and founder of the eponymous sustainable plant-based paint company, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint.
In his very first book published by Rizzoli, The Colourful past: Edward Bulmer and the English Country House, Edward takes readers through the keyhole into his most memorable work in some of Britain’s finest buildings, including: Althorp, Princess Diana’s childhood home, the Prime Minister’s official country residence, Chequers, Goodwood and Pitshill House, as well as his own Queen Anne House in Herefordshire.
This masterpiece has received remarkable reviews from some of the most prestigious publications and individuals in the interior design and creative industries. Below we share some of our favourite rooms showcasing our natural paints which grace the pages throughout the book with historic houses captured beautifully by well-renowned photographer and good friend Paul Whitbread
'A bolection panelled interior in the original part of the house. We changed the colour to Sea Green and felt no compunction to ‘obey’ the panels when hanging Sophie Coryndon’s beautiful tulip paintings. The red lacquer cabinet brought back from Hong Kong works so well against the blue on the walls which has plenty of yellow in it.'
As you may know of our founder, architectural historian and leading interior designer, Edward breathes new life into centuries-old houses with a sympathy that is rooted in a deep understanding of the past, transforming them into comfortable homes designed for modern living. His own house is the perfect example of this. Edward and his family have spent the last twenty years turning what had become a rundown farmhouse into a comfortable, beautiful, practical home-still with a working organic farm – that perfectly accommodates the demands of present-day life. His home has become a laboratory for his design practice and is also the base for his paint company, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint, which he operates out of an old cattle shed with the paint being mixed in a recently restored Dutch barn.
Launched in October 2022, the book has received remarkable reviews from some of the most prestigious publications and individuals in the interior design and creative industry.
The natural paints grace the pages throughout the book with historic houses captured beautifully by well-renowned photographer and good friend Paul Whitbread
It is perhaps his own house, Court of Noke, that the average reader might find easiest to relate to. There are rugs found on Moroccan holidays and walls are hung with Edward’s own drawings alongside grander pictures. And unlike the house where he grew up, where he had ‘little exposure to the finer rooms’, this is a true (and truly beautiful) family home. Paul Whitbread’s photography is very fine, with some glowing close-ups if details – a corner of flowery carpet, a gilded mirror, some intricate passementerie – as well as well chosen views of whole rooms. In Edward’s book, colour is king.
The book is a modern day bible and a must for all interiors lovers, especially those who have a passion in historic decoration and architectural detail. Edward takes readers through his creative and working process in each project, describing in detail how he renovated, decorated, and preserved the home, the problems he encountered and the decisions he and his clients made to solve them, all while sharing tips and secrets that readers can take away for their own home.
I think the book is amazing! Just fabulous - so so enjoyable to swim around in, and a fascinating read too. Hugely impressive! And of course, I'm pleased as punch about my pictures being included - brilliantly super for me! It's an astonishing book, really. You've touched the sky.
Give this timeless and beautiful book to all your design loving friends and family and of course treat yourself to a signed copy by Edward himself, which can be bought at the London Showroom.
We have an exciting upcoming event at Thyme in Gloucestershire on the 31st March: In Conversation: Edward Bulmer & Giles Kime, Interiors Editor of Country Life. Book you ticket now!
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New London showroom is 5 minutes walk from Sloane Square or Victoria tube station – 194 Ebury St, London SW1W 8UP
