Surrey's Estate Embodying the Essence of Traditional British Design
Hanging Out at Old Manor Houses: The Fascinating Tale of Vann
Vibe: Let's dive into this sweet English manor house that's been stylishly revamped by the hardworking Edwardian architect W. D. Caroë. Buckle up, mate, as we explore his creative blend of old and new architecture!
Vann: A Countryside Hideaway
Situated in the lush meadows near Chiddingfold, on the Surrey-Sussex border, lies Vann—a manor house that easily embodies English architecture's essence. Originally known as Lower Vann Farm, its oldest part, a central range, dates back to 1542. Over the years, it has undergone various transformations, culminating in Caroë's killer redesign in the early 1900s.
The Modern Gentleman: W. D. Caroë
Born in 1857 to Liverpool's Danish consul, W. D. Caroë was a formidable architect whose work has left a lasting impact, particularly his ecclesiastical designs. He started his career working under Edmund Kirby before moving to John Loughborough Pearson's team, known for designing Truro Cathedral in Cornwall. Passionate about old English architecture and possessing a rational, mathematical mind, Caroë went on to work for the Ecclesiastical Commissioners as their architect.
A Country House Dream: The Transformation of Vann
Caroë's vision for Vann was to create a modest manor that blended seamlessly with the surrounding countryside. He took inspiration from local barns, cottages, and farmhouses, adjusting his designs to harmonize with the rural landscape. Critics of the time, like Lawrence Weaver, praised the resulting elegant manor house that harkened back to medieval and Tudor periods—perfect for a lavish country retreat.
Old Meets New
From 1907 to 1908, Caroë remodeled and extended Vann to create a comfy country home that would impress even the classiest Edwardian guests. He preserved the original building's charm while incorporating new structures to cater to contemporary needs. One famous addition was a hay barn, transformed into a memorable entertaining space that featured a wide inglenook, a gallery, and hosted performances, social gatherings, and even a staging of Milton's Masque of Comus.
Inside the Manor
The interiors of Vann reflect a Victorian love for Old England and a celebration of the ancient manor house. The Caroë family filled the place with intricate plasterwork, handcrafted oak joinery, and collections of English paintings and pewter plates. The Arts-and-Crafts spirit is also evident in the prevailing emphasis on handmade decor elements.
Continuing Legacy: The Caroë Clan
Vann has remained in the Caroë family for generations. Their descendants have continued to make their mark as architects, contributing to the maintenance, renovation, and preservation of the house. The family's diverse contributions have kept Vann alive and vibrant, altering it according to changing needs and preferences.
Let's Renovate!
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Explore the fashion and beauty of Vann's Victorian interiors, adorned with handcrafted oak joinery and English paintings, as part of its captivating lifestyle. From food and drink to home and garden, immerse yourself in the charming countryside setting of this renovated manor house that offers a glimpse into the Edwardian era's refined tastes and trends. Additionally, embark on travel adventures and discover more stunning old manor houses like Vann, whether for a dreamy countryside retreat or your next architectural exploration.
