Standen

Standen is a showpiece of the Arts and Crafts movement.

It was built between 1891 and 1894 by the influential architect Philip Webb for the Beale family. Webb's design was in the vernacular style and used traditional building methods. As a result the house looks as if it has developed over centuries rather than having been constructed in a just a few years.

Webb, together with William Morris, was a leading member of the Arts and Crafts movement whose aim was to promote craftsmenship over the mass production of the Victorian era.

Webb not only designed the building but was also responsible for the interior's furnishings and fittings.

Details of Webb's designs can be seen all over the house from the fireplaces to the electric light fittings. The furniture was custom made with pieces from Heals and the Morris company and as well as some designed by Webb himself. Ceramics were made by William de Morgan.

There are well preserved examples of wallpapers and fabrics designed by William Morris including the Larkspur, Trellis and Peacock motifs.

Standen is now owned by the National Trust but it still preserves the warm, welcoming atmosphere of a family house.