COUNTRYSIDE HOUSE
South England, UK
“Romance and mysticism, interwoven with playful, evocative narratives”
At this 16th Century manor house we were tasked with delivering the owner’s vision of creating a magical and creatively inspiring environment for not only them to enjoy, but for artists to collaborate, create and perform. Hendra collaborated with a New York studio on the project, as well as engaging with many talented local artisans, artists and makers. Subtle narratives were woven into every room, in a way that was intended to intrigue and stimulate the imagination.
DESIGN INSPIRATION
The owner’s interests in nature, numerology, local and celestial mythology and astronomy were a rich source of design cues, as was the house itself. The local area has an abundance of pagan and folkloric tales, and the grounds of the house are abundant in flora and fauna.
We designed and commissioned multiple bespoke additions to the building, including a stained-glass screen depicting fragments of a 1240’s world map, forged chairs tracing planetary paths, and a pargetted lattice ceiling inspired by the moat’s waterlilies and its wildlife, both real and mythical. Sourced furniture featured a mix of Art & Crafts and Asian antiques, Lutyens-designed pieces, with drapery in sumptuous Fortuny fabrics, all helping to create a nuanced and evocative feel.
BUILDING CONTEXT
Built in the 1500’s, the Grade II listed property occupies the site of an earlier house recorded in the Doomsday book. Set within sixty acres of land and lakes, it features a patchwork of local materials including flint, stone, oak and slate.
A 1920’s renovation by Lutyens included the romantic addition of a moat to encircle the building, to be accessed via his only bridge design.
Images courtesy of Helen Puxley, Tom Gontar and Alice Lund.