Year 4 visit William Morris's 'Redhouse'

After the long bank holiday weekend, Year 4 Pine Tree returned back to school with a visit to a house which a famous painter once occupied in the 18th Century. 

The 'Redhouse', located in Bexleyheath, was home to William Morris who is remembered for his unique and exquisite patterns. 

Can you guess why the house is called the Redhouse? See below for the answer!

The children were given the opportunity to design their own patterns using repetition and symmetry, two things which were key to Morris. They sat in Morris's studio where he too would work on new patterns and designs.

Here are three of his most famous prints. Top left: Trellis. Top right: Daisy. Bottom: Fruit.

His patterns came from two topics, nature and geometry.

While Morris lived in the Redhouse, every ceiling was patterned. However, since other people lived in the house, not many of the patterns remain. What does remain is the holes which were used to guide the pattern.

We learnt that every room contained a fireplace due to there not being any central heating. The soot from the coals could blacken the ceiling though and special people called 'conservationists'.

We saw some inscriptions in Latin. This particular one, found in the drawing room, translates to 'Art is Forever but Life is Short'. We realised this to be true, as Morris is no longer around but we are able to still view and appreciate his work.

Morris printed on a number of different materials including paper, tiles, glass and fabric to print on making some fabulous wallpapers, rugs and windows.

Pine Tree admiring the outside of the house from the garden.

Answer: The house was the first house to be built from red bricks!