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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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Bedside Manners
One of the joys of visiting different historic houses and stately piles around the country is seeing how different owners or custodians style their interiors, exteriors and gardens. Our post today allows us to compare notes on just one small element of grand house style… Yes folks, it’s the turn of the BEDSIDE TABLE. Here are some nice examples of this small but essential piece of furniture all of which have been paired with a complimentary lamp. We…
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Interior Inspiration
We’ve been working on a house renovation project for some time now and have had to focus on all the necessary but less exciting tasks: roof repairs, rotten beams, new windows, new boiler etc. But FINALLY, this year, we can make a start on the INTERIORS! Although this house is not a grand pile, we still love to take inspiration from the wonderful stately homes and country houses we have visited. For example: we adore the pink fabric…
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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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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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A moment of reflection
It’s the last day of January and already there is a feeling that Spring is on the way. The evenings are a little bit lighter and give us hope when too much of what is happening in the world at the moment is so dark. The snowdrops are coming up in the garden and the song thrush is singing it’s early song in the orchard. Nature always finds a way to recover and so must we. We hope…
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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…
