Illuminating a Cotswolds Manor House
There aren’t many people who can claim to have bought a piece of history. The new owners of Ashleworth Manor can certainly claim this title, having purchased and restored the 15thCentury Manor House. Ashleworth Manor, set amidst a stunning 10-acre plot and with its rich history, is one of those properties that commands respect and close attention to detail. Imagine stepping into a home that has witnessed centuries of countless stories unfold. Every brick and every beam of this house whispers tales from the past.
A brief history
As far back as the 12th century, the Manor of Ashleworth, part of the Ashleworth Court Estate, was donated to the Abbey of St Augustine (now Bristol Cathedral) by the Earl of Berkeley. During the 15th century, the Abbots embarked on works to create the bones of the current house, which became the Bishop of Bristol’s summer residence. The original hall house structure was considerably altered with the additions of chimneys, the porch and the insertion of a first floor above the main hall. The property has continued to evolve ever since- surviving the Wars of the Roses, becoming garrisoned during the English Civil War and more recently enjoying peaceful times serving variously as church house, farmhouse, vicarage and private house.
Marrying Old and New
Because the current house spans at least 600 years of history, it visibly traces the history of English architecture; from Medieval core through to Victorian, Arts and Crafts, and Edwardian additions, it was important for the new owners, Nicola and her family, to respect the house’s journey and make repairs and alterations to enhance these historic details whilst bringing 21stCentury design and technology to the building. Nicola worked with architect Charles Mullineaux, heritage builder Ian Spencer, and energy experts, ISO Energy to repair the original details, enhance the living spaces and overhaul the outdated oil-fired heating and plumbing with a new ground source system. When it came to the interior and exterior detailing, to realise the vision - not just to restore the aesthetic but to infuse it with a fresh, modern charm while paying homage to the historic roots, the key ingredient to achieve this transformation was with the right lighting. This is where we stepped in;
Lighting Up History
The entrance of Ashleworth Manor immediately sets the tone. The Kemble Overhead Lantern in Antique Brass right next to the period entrance door (with distinct hobbit-like vibes!) offers a warm and inviting glow, reminiscent of ancient English manors where lanterns served as the beacon guiding visitors home. The relatively modern Edwardian wing of the houses the new kitchen. Here Nicola chose the Kemble Hanging Lantern in Dark Antique Brass. Positioned above the kitchen island, this lantern complements the new steel framed leaded French doors, bridging the gap between the Manor’s rich history and new contemporary design elements, such as the open plan kitchen shelving. The stairwell, often a space that’s overlooked, became a statement with the Kemble Hanging Lantern Small in Polished Brass. As you ascend the stairs, the light cascades, illuminating the uneven walls that have witnessed so many comings and goings over the centuries. Nicola’s design strategy is layered, adding depth to every corner of the manor. The Montpellier Passage Lantern in Dark Antique Brass in a hallway passage, miner’s style Deck Lamps in antique brass in the study, and the playful 1890s style Boat Lamps in various rooms throughout the property create pockets of warm light and ambiance throughout the house. The Cheltenham Wall Lights add grace to the drawing room, and the Granham Wall Lights with black shades in Antique Brass lend a grandeur to a dining room worthy of hosting several lifetimes of elegant dinners.
A particular highlight are the Columbus Adjustable Wall Lights in Antique Brass. Nestled as a side lamp in a guest bedroom, it’s a subtle nod to luxury and functionality. Meanwhile, the Brent Flash Pendant in Nickel in the kitchen/utility areas adds a touch of modern flair to a functional space
Experience the Magic
The Collaboration between Nicola’s vision and our lighting expertise has brought forth a renewed Ashleworth Manor, where every room tells a tale, and every lamp adds to its story. If the story of Ashleworth Manor’s journey has intrigued you, then you’ll be pleased to know that you can experience the magic first hand, as it’s guest wing is listed on AirBnB. Book a stay, walk the halls illuminated by our handpicked lighting, and let the history of this beautiful house enchant you. At Regency Chandeliers and Interiors, we believe that the right lighting can bring a home to life. Whether it’s a historic manor or a modern apartment, we’re here to help you transform your home. To discuss our range of modern and period crystal chandeliers and extensive collection of lanterns, email us at contact@regencychandeliers.co.uk
