Originally a grand country estate, our establishment has since been repurposed into local authority offices. Dating back to 1705, as evidenced by a plaque nestled in the roof, this architectural marvel underwent significant renovations in the late 18th century under the ownership of the Purnell family. Further enhancements were made around 1880 under the direction of Edwin Eyre. Crafted from ashlar limestone, marlstone, and brick, with Welsh slate roofing, our structure boasts an elegant blend of materials.
The front facade showcases a captivating asymmetrical design, featuring a central pedimented break forward. Fenestration is meticulously arranged, with chamfered rustication on the ground floor and a plain band above, linking seamlessly with each window's central keystone. The upper floor windows, adorned with incised architraves, exude timeless charm. A single-storey porch, added in the 19th century, welcomes visitors with its Doric pilasters and entablature, complemented by a round-arched doorway.
As you explore the premises, you'll encounter various architectural delights, including a two-storey canted bay window on the northwest side and a graceful Ionic column-lined entrance hall leading to the staircase hall. The interior preserves numerous features dating back to the late 18th and 19th centuries, from Mannerist fireplaces to fluted architrave doorcases. The open-well staircase, adorned with barleysugar balusters, adds to the grandeur of the space.
While our surroundings have evolved over time, with the landscaped grounds now occupied by 1930s housing, our commitment to preserving and showcasing this historic gem remains unwavering. Discover the rich tapestry of our past as you step into our hallowed halls, where every corner holds a piece of history waiting to be explored.
The front facade showcases a captivating asymmetrical design, featuring a central pedimented break forward. Fenestration is meticulously arranged, with chamfered rustication on the ground floor and a plain band above, linking seamlessly with each window's central keystone. The upper floor windows, adorned with incised architraves, exude timeless charm. A single-storey porch, added in the 19th century, welcomes visitors with its Doric pilasters and entablature, complemented by a round-arched doorway.
As you explore the premises, you'll encounter various architectural delights, including a two-storey canted bay window on the northwest side and a graceful Ionic column-lined entrance hall leading to the staircase hall. The interior preserves numerous features dating back to the late 18th and 19th centuries, from Mannerist fireplaces to fluted architrave doorcases. The open-well staircase, adorned with barleysugar balusters, adds to the grandeur of the space.
While our surroundings have evolved over time, with the landscaped grounds now occupied by 1930s housing, our commitment to preserving and showcasing this historic gem remains unwavering. Discover the rich tapestry of our past as you step into our hallowed halls, where every corner holds a piece of history waiting to be explored.
Since the 1990s and the conception of Kingshill House as a charity, it has welcomed thousands of people through its blue door and where the stunning Georgian rooms come alive with the sound of chatter and laughter while bespoke art is being created.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the House being used as a community arts centre and we decided it was time to explore our history and tell the tale of Kingshill House.
We have not journeyed through the past on our own – we would not have been able to gather this information without the help of several key contributors, David Vanderveer and David Evans. We also thank the team who worked tirelessly to save the house from ruin in the 1990s and for recording the work, so that we may be able to look back and see how far we have come.
Exploring the history of the house is an on-going project. To ensure that we have as accurate and detailed information as possible, we are segmenting this project into three 'historic phases' - 1705-1930s, 1930s-1990s and the refurbishment of the house in the 1990s.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the House being used as a community arts centre and we decided it was time to explore our history and tell the tale of Kingshill House.
We have not journeyed through the past on our own – we would not have been able to gather this information without the help of several key contributors, David Vanderveer and David Evans. We also thank the team who worked tirelessly to save the house from ruin in the 1990s and for recording the work, so that we may be able to look back and see how far we have come.
Exploring the history of the house is an on-going project. To ensure that we have as accurate and detailed information as possible, we are segmenting this project into three 'historic phases' - 1705-1930s, 1930s-1990s and the refurbishment of the house in the 1990s.
