Set amidst the backdrop of Bowness-on-Windermere, Blackwell, The Arts & Crafts House is an immersive journey into the rich heritage of the Arts & Crafts Movement.
Designed by the celebrated architect M. H. Baillie Scott in the closing years of the 19th century, this architectural masterpiece reflects the era’s philosophical underpinnings that valued craftsmanship, beauty, and functionality.
A Reverence for Craftsmanship
Upon stepping inside, the Main Hall immediately captures your attention. Radiating warmth and charm, the hall boasts meticulous wood carvings, ornate stucco work, and a captivating fireplace which anchors the space.
Each element, from the choice of wood to the mesmerising designs gracing the walls, amplifies the Arts & Crafts mantra: craftsmanship transcends mere proficiency, elevating itself to an art form.
The harmonious blend of design and detail woven by Baillie Scott reverberates throughout Blackwell, championing the conviction that art should seamlessly merge beauty with purpose.
The White Drawing Room
Perhaps the crowning glory of Blackwell is the White Drawing Room, an ethereal space where Baillie Scott’s vision fully comes to life. Adorned with a high barrel-vaulted ceiling, stunning white woodwork, and an elegant inglenook fireplace, the room is a sanctuary of peace and refinement.
The meticulously designed furniture, textiles, and ornaments further enhance the experience, seamlessly integrating with the room’s architecture to offer a unified aesthetic delight.
History in Every Corner
What adds to Blackwell’s allure is its historical significance. The house was originally built as a holiday retreat for Sir Edward Holt, a wealthy Manchester brewer.
Great care has been taken to maintain the home’s authenticity. As a result, the building retains much of its original furniture and fittings. This devotion to its historical roots provides visitors with an invaluable window into the lives and values of those who embraced the Arts & Crafts movement.
Room by Room
Blackwell consists of a series of interconnected rooms, each with its own character and essence. The dining room, with its rich dark wood and purpose-built furniture, serves as a contrast to the more luminous spaces within the house.
The intricately designed fireplace tiles and accompanying hearth seating encapsulate the warmth and intimacy characteristic of the Arts & Crafts style. A walk through the house feels like a journey through a living museum, with every room offering a different aspect of the movement’s design principles.
The Exterior
Blackwell’s architecture extends beyond its interior, embracing the natural beauty of the Lake District. The house features a garden that embodies the Arts & Crafts love for organic shapes and harmonious design, making it an idyllic spot for a leisurely stroll.
Tea Room and Gift Shop
Complementing the historical experience, Blackwell offers modern amenities that include a charming tea room and a well-curated gift shop.
The tea room provides an array of local snacks and refreshments, while the gift shop is stocked with a variety of Arts & Crafts-related souvenirs, books, and other memorabilia, ensuring you can take home a memento of your visit.
Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features
The property also caters to the needs of all visitors. It is wheelchair-accessible, with lifts that provide access to all floors. The gift shop and tea room also accommodate those with mobility issues, ensuring that everyone can fully engage with this artistic haven.
Address – Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere, LA23 3JT
Telephone – 015394 46139
Website – https://lakelandarts.org.uk/blackwell
Image: lakelandarts.org.uk
