ISIDORE LEROY
A KEY PLAYER IN THE FRENCH WALLPAPER INDUSTRY
From the outset, Leroy has relied on three fundamental principles that have made it a success: technological advance, product excellence and elegant designs.
THE STORY BEGINS IN 1842
Isidore Leroy patents his "multi-colour simultaneous printing machine for drapery papers and a printing cylinder for papers and fabrics". It was now possible to print continuously on paper, based on methods previously reserved for fabrics. The traditional, manual plate technique was a thing of the past. This technical revolution propelled Isidore Leroy's production into the industrial age and made his company the market reference for 140 years.
UNDER THE SECOND EMPIRE
The Manufacture experienced its first golden age. Successes followed: awards at the Universal Exhibitions of 1855 and 1867, registration of invention and improvement patents, an increase in the number of models offered for sale, and a surge in orders supported in 1860 by the signing of the Franco-British Free Trade Agreement. Leroy wallpapers were sought after all over the world. It was then, in 1877, that Isidore Leroy invented the "26-colour printing machine", a true technical marvel that would never be equalled. It was the time of the triumphant and prosperous bourgeoisie. It was a time of luxury and ostentatious comfort, creating an extremely favourable environment for Leroy wallpapers.
FROM NEW ART TO DECO ART
The house of Leroy is in its second heyday and the modern spirit is blowing through its creations. The fashion is for constructive logic, formal rigour, rhythm of lines and sober colours. Geometric figures abound: circles, triangles, rhombuses. They simulate the movement of a generation that is discovering the aeroplane, the automobile and the delights of sport. The technological advance was maintained, and the range of Leroy wallpapers came in varnished, glazed or washable versions. The factory was running at full capacity and the company was the undisputed leader in its market in France and Europe.
TODAY, OUR WALLPAPERS ARE PRODUCED WITH THE GREATEST CARE
ACCORDING TO TWO TECHNICAL METHODS OF CRAFTSMANSHIP
TRADITIONAL ROLL PRINTING
Similar to the production process used since 1849 by the Isidore Leroy company, the ink is applied to the paper by rollers in relief. The "background" colour is applied with a brush. These processes make it possible to produce wallpapers with a unique texture, both tactile and luminous;
DIGITAL PRINTING
Using the latest and constantly evolving technology, which allows for exceptional colour rendition.
The models in the Heritage collection have been modernised by an international design team to give new life to the original 19th and 20th century designs, in a contemporary approach in line with current trends.