Farrow & Ball Unveils The Purnon Papers Wallpaper Collection Inspired by Purnon Castle

The Purnon Papers: A Journey Through History in Wallpaper

On November 17, 2025, British premium paint brand Farrow & Ball is set to launch a captivating new wallpaper collection titled "The Purnon Papers" in Japan. This unique collection draws its inspiration from the rich history and exquisite patterns found at Purnon Castle, an ancient structure nestled in the picturesque Loire Valley of France.

The Purnon Castle, a stunning classical French edifice built between 1772 and 1791 by a marquis, lay in a dilapidated state for over a century until it was purchased by an Australian couple, Felicity Selkirk and Tim Holding, in May 2020. The couple made the commendable decision to protect this historical and cultural heritage site while residing within its walls. Initially, they sought the expertise of Farrow & Ball to renovate their bedroom and bathroom. During this process, the creative director of the brand stumbled upon a treasure trove of historical patterns and colors in the castle's attic and linen closet. Inspired by this significant discovery, Farrow & Ball crafted the remarkable collection, "The Purnon Papers," which aims to breathe life into the captivating stories and legacy of Purnon Castle.

A Glimpse Into The New Collection

1. PURNON

The standout pattern of the collection, "PURNON," features a mesmerizing heron motif that adds unparalleled elegance to any space. This design was discovered from an 18th-century folding screen that once adorned the lavish gatherings within the castle, silently creating an intimate atmosphere among the guests.

2. ADELAÏDE

Named after the daughter of the family that built the castle, the "ADELAÏDE" floral design was initially a small-scale pattern found in her dressing room. Farrow & Ball has reimagined it into a bold and large design, preserving its delicate charm while making it suitable for modern interiors.

3. ACHARD

The "ACHARD" pattern pays homage to the noble Achard family, who constructed Purnon Castle. This geometric pattern was surprisingly found in a practical linen closet rather than an ornate room, suggesting that beauty was interwoven into even the most functional spaces, highlighting that everyday environments can also possess aesthetic allure.

4. BARACÉ

Discovered in the attic, the "BARACÉ" wallpaper was initially used to grace the bed of Madame de la Motte Baracé's mother. This faded design has been transformed into a contemporary and refined pattern, expressing the personal histories of those who lived in the castle and the familial stories passed down through generations.

5. AUGUSTE

The elegant "AUGUSTE" pattern was unearthed in the dressing room and is dedicated to the marquis’s eldest son, Auguste, who was a contemporary of Napoleon yet tragically lost his life during the revolution. This wallpaper quietly narrates tales of a bygone era and the ephemeral yet beautiful lives that once thrived within the castle's walls.

Farrow & Ball: Commitment to Quality

Renowned for its high-quality paints, Farrow & Ball continues to use only the finest materials to create richly pigmented paints and handcrafted wallpapers. With a palette of 132 colors, often used in the restoration of historic buildings, the brand brings depth and vibrancy to walls and furnishings, reacting with the light throughout the day. Notably, their products surpass even the stringent EU safety standards and meet the highest ranks of safety certification with minimal odor, achieving an F☆☆☆☆ rating. In recent years, Farrow & Ball has also focused on reducing its environmental impact through eco-friendly water-based paints and recyclable materials. The brand's commitment to social and environmental contributions has led to its pending B Corp certification in 2024, underlining its sustainable practices.

Explore the Collection

The Farrow & Ball showroom in Ginza, Tokyo, is the perfect location to explore the new collection and see firsthand the beauty of the wallpaper designs inspired by Purnon Castle. Farrow & Ball invites you to experience the stories woven into every pattern, transforming your living spaces into personalized havens of creativity and history.