Wood has long been one of the most cherished surfaces to paint on, offering a unique, crafted feel. Its natural texture brings character to any piece, providing endless creative possibilities. Even the old masters, like Leonardo da Vinci, favoured wooden boards as their canvas. Today on the blog, we’re excited to share how we’ve embraced this timeless craft in the designs at Warren Street Hotel.
One of our most beloved artists, Joe Tilson, continues this tradition, blending old-world techniques with a modern twist. His large, sculptural artwork in the restaurant at Warren Street Hotel draws on his background as a carpenter and joiner. Bold, lively, and full of character, his wood-based creations bring an unmistakable presence to many of our hotels, and his daring piece in the restaurant hangs proudly as a testament to his artistry.
Also in the restaurant, the bar is lined with hand-painted wooden boxes. This grouping of boxes forms a larger work of art, painted in neutral tones with abstract patterns and striking scale. The result is both subtle and impactful, adding a layer of artistic sophistication to the space.
Wood is often used for framing, and at Warren Street Hotel, our framer takes this craft to new heights. Inspired by the works they encase, he reinvents the art of framing by incorporating exciting painted designs that enhance and complement the artwork within.
Beyond art, wood’s versatility shines in furniture making. It has been prized for centuries for its durability, beauty, and ease of use. We love adding a personal touch by painting furniture, like the vibrant chest in the Drawing Room, crafted by Tess Newall. Peek inside, and you’ll discover a delightful array of treasures hidden within.
For a fun twist, we’ve given chests of drawers and commodes a bold makeover, painting them in bright, contrasting colours that bring joy and energy to the space.
Another beloved feature is Mimi de Biarritz’s intricately painted birdhouses. Made from wood and rich with detail, these handcrafted pieces sit proudly on the shelves in the drawing room, adding a charming, artistic accent to the space.
We hope this blog has inspired you to embrace the beauty of painted wood in your own home!