A bold new look for Willow & Wolf, a fashion and homewares boutique in Marlborough, Wiltshire, has sparked a mix of admiration and controversy. Owner Isabella Wookey recently painted striking pink and brown stripes—dubbed ‘Marmite’ stripes—on the frontage of the shop, located within an 18th-century Grade-II listed building and the town’s Conservation Area.
The makeover, intended as a temporary seasonal refresh to add color and creativity to the high street, was done without prior permission from local authorities. As a result, Wiltshire Council is now considering serving an enforcement notice requiring the facade to be repainted.
Public reaction has been sharply divided. Some locals praise the vibrant stripes for injecting a touch of glamour and freshness into Marlborough’s historic streetscape. One supporter commented, “I think it looks amazing; adds a bit of glamour to Marlborough Town,” while another welcomed the colorful makeover as a refreshing change to the high street.
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Others, however, feel the design clashes with the town’s traditional character. Critics argue it is too striking and out of place, with one remarking, “Someone didn’t understand the rules,” and another urging that the facade be restored to its original appearance.
Councillor Adrian Foster, cabinet member for strategic planning, confirmed the council would investigate the matter following established planning enforcement policies. Another councillor described the design as “quite fun” and suggested it might attract more shoppers.
Despite the controversy, Isabella says the overwhelmingly positive response from her 30,000-strong Instagram following and local community has encouraged her to consider making the stripes a permanent feature. She emphasized the importance of respecting Marlborough’s heritage and expressed her willingness to work with the council to ensure the shopfront complies with all regulations.
“We are incredibly proud to be part of Marlborough’s beautiful and historic High Street,” Isabella said. “Willow & Wolf aims to support our thriving local economy and contribute to the vibrant, creative independent community here. A bustling high street filled with unique small businesses is essential to the social and economic heart of our town.”
As the debate continues, the future of the ‘Marmite’ stripes remains uncertain, balancing heritage preservation with creative expression in a beloved market town.