Knole
Showrooms Kent
Client: The National Trust
Grade I listed, Knole is considered to be one of the great noble houses of England. It is physically the largest private home in England and the only one of its scale to remain, retaining all of its accretions and preserving medieval elements. The Sackville family still reside in part of the House but it has been in the care of the National Trust since 1946.
The Practice were appointed as Lead Consultant and Architects for the ‘Inspired by Knole’ project to deliver a transformative experience for visitors to the House, which was achieved over a multi phased, six-year programme, completed in early 2019. The works included the repair and re-ordering of the 17th Century Showrooms and creating new visitor spaces within the previously un-exhibited attics at the heart of this part stone built and part timber framed house. The main works were preceded by an investigation and enabling phase, working closely with National Trust specialists to establish a sound knowledge and strategy for undertaking an exceedingly complex project, to include the clients own supplementary works to conserve and reinterpret the historic collection.
The integration of new conservation heating, specialist lighting, fire protection and security systems, with the careful conservation of the historic structure and fabric, including oak wall panelling, floor boards, wall hangings, and decorations, as well as the installation of new protective glass screens, all supporting the display of the valuable exhibits made this one of the Practice’s most enduring projects.
Showrooms
Grade I listed, Knole is considered to be one of the great noble houses of England. It is physically the largest private home in England and the only one of its scale to remain, retaining all of its accretions and preserving medieval elements. The Sackville family still reside in part of the House but it has been in the care of the National Trust since 1946.
The Practice were appointed as Lead Consultant and Architects for the ‘Inspired by Knole’ project to deliver a transformative experience for visitors to the House, which was achieved over a multi phased, six-year programme, completed in early 2019. The works included the repair and re-ordering of the 17th Century Showrooms and creating new visitor spaces within the previously un-exhibited attics at the heart of this part stone built and part timber framed house. The main works were preceded by an investigation and enabling phase, working closely with National Trust specialists to establish a sound knowledge and strategy for undertaking an exceedingly complex project, to include the clients own supplementary works to conserve and reinterpret the historic collection.
The integration of new conservation heating, specialist lighting, fire protection and security systems, with the careful conservation of the historic structure and fabric, including oak wall panelling, floor boards, wall hangings, and decorations, as well as the installation of new protective glass screens, all supporting the display of the valuable exhibits made this one of the Practice’s most enduring projects.