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Raynham Hall
Raynham Hall is a wonderful 17th and 18th century house which is still in private ownership. The Marquess and Marchioness Townsend live there and this little character came out to greet us when we visited for a tour a couple of years ago. The interiors of the house were gorgeous and full of treasures but no internal photography was allowed. However, there is a wonderful book about it by Michael Ridgdill, if you would like to see more.…
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Strawberry Hill
This wonderful Georgian Gothic Revival villa has been on our list for a while, so we are delighted to be able to share it with you today. It was built for Horace Walpole (Earl of Orford) from 1749 and has the most amazing set of eccentric interiors which would be worthy of a film set. Even in his day they caused a sensation. The peer wanted to create a “little gothic castle” and he incorporated many design elements…
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Barons Hall at Raby Castle
There are a few historic homes that we come back to time and time again, Raby Castle is one such place. Having visited on a number of occasions, exploring both the wonderful grounds and splendid interiors, we often think what a wonderful place it must be to call home. Walking through the Baron’s Hall, you can’t help but think of the important English history that took place within the castle’s walls. From the birth of Cecily Neville (mother…
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Melford Hall
It’s nearly the weekend so let’s celebrate by paying another visit to the marvellous Melford Hall. This grand entrance hall has been made inviting by combining all our favourite elements of English style; a fine fireplace, panelling, period portraits and cheery Knole sofas. Surely the perfect formula for a timeless and comfortable interior? We hope you all have some exciting plans for this weekend!
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Kedleston Hall
The Saloon at Kedleston Hall, has an impressive domed Robert Adam ceiling, which was inspired by the architect’s visits to the Pantheon in Rome. The room was occasionally used for balls and has a wooden spring floor. Its main purpose, however, was simply to impress and fill the mind with ‘extensive thoughts’. Whilst the dome itself is ornate and intricate, the surrounding walls are calming with their muted palette and elegant neoclassical designs. Just imagine how wonderful it…
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The Old vs The New
One of our goals at ITES is to celebrate English Style and usually this focuses on pre-20th century architecture, art and interiors. Why? Because we love it! But how do we all feel about more modern examples and in particular how they sit alongside our older heritage? Here are some examples of newer art, architecture, furniture, and even fashion sitting alongside more recognisable earlier English style. We’d love to know your thoughts. Surely English Style should continue to…
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Lost houses of England
We were so interested to read all your comments on our post about Sutton Scarsdale. It’s clear that these derelict or lost houses of England draw passionate interest from many and have left an indelible mark on our national consciousness. Our family has connections with the lost Rushbrooke Hall in Suffolk. It was a beautiful Tudor building laid out in the shape of an E. My Grandfather once stayed there for a night whilst researching its history. The…
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The Tulip Stairs
The sweeping Tulip Stairs are one of the original features of the Queen’s House in Greenwich. The building was designed by Inigo Jones for Anne of Denmark but was not completed until 1630, after her death. These stairs were also the first self-supporting spiral staircase designed in Britain. They must surely have been considered ground breaking at the timehttp://Queens House Greenwich
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The fate of one English Country House
If you are driving North on the M1 in Derbyshire, you might spot the majestic ruins of Sutton Scarsdale high up on the hill. Its roof is open to the sky, the sash windows are empty and the once fine interiors have been removed. This historic house was built between 1724 and 1729, for the 4th Earl of Scarsdale. He commissioned the architect Francis Smith to skilfully incorporate the earlier building of about 1469 within its layout. The…
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Chatsworth at New Year
The library at Chatsworth looked stunning this morning, with a traditional tree and stars as accents. There was a time when our English Stately Homes closed from October to March but their festive openings now bring in much needed income to keep them going. Chatsworth was thronging with visitors this morning. Tickets to the house had sold out, the gardens were busy and it was hard to find a free table in the cafes. Whilst some might feel…
