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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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Snowdrops
Yesterday’s finer weather has brought out more of the snowdrops in the garden. They are cultivars and we pick one bunch every year, to enjoy indoors. They have a very delicate scent and we have a few different varieties, including a very pretty double. We could not resist the flower brick in the gift shop at Blenheim Palace last year. It’s the creation of renowned Oxfordshire based ceramist Deborah Sears. Her company ISIS Ceramics, makes beautiful pieces in…
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Weaving some magic
We’re looking back to North Norfolk today to view this stunning room at Blickling Hall. It was created to accommodate the large tapestry which depicts Peter the Great defeating the Swedes at the Battle of Poltswa in 1709. We believe that the beautiful pink damask on the walls was created by Humphries Weaving who are based in Sudbury in Suffolk. The company specialises in custom Jacquard designs and we have featured their glorious textiles before. You can also…
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Staffordshire Dogs
Our Staffordshire Dog Display team appears to be very sociable and there is always room for one more on the yew table, in the foreground. The Greyhounds, however, insist that the mantelpiece is reserved for sight hounds only. They like to look down on us all. We keep the peace by giving them all a change of scenery and a good dusting now and again. 😂
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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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Mystery interior
Do you know where this pretty panelled room is situated? Whilst this photo is not publication-perfect, it shows the reality of photographing so many of the places we visit. The sensor on the table, is not attractive, but it plays a vital role in monitoring humidity levels in this historic building; Something I became very familiar with when I worked in a museum. The lights are actually just lamps placed on wall brackets, and we think they are…
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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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A view with a room
The month of January is named after Janus, the ancient Roman God of new beginnings, gates, transitions and doorways. So today we thought we would share a few of our favourite doorway views which lead through to special rooms. We love the way that this perspective frames the interior beyond giving a glimpse of what’s to come. Hope your year is off to a good start! Burghley House, Haddon Hall, Chillingham Castle, Blenheim, Montacute, Bolsover Castle, Hardwick Hall,…
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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…
