Standen

Designed by Phillip Webb, Standen is an 1890s family home in the countryside of Sussex, decorated throughout with William Morris designs.  The interesting thing about this house is how distinctly un-Victorian it looked, the combined result of the Morris aesthetic, the use of innovations such as electric lights throughout, and in general a lighter, more modern decorating taste.  Standen was an interesting stop but not nearly as stunning as Wightwick Manor.  One detail of note was a simple poster display on servant life in the old kitchen -- despite the use of modern (for the time) equipment, the owners still employed 14 house servants around the turn of the century, and visitors are given brief but fascinating information about their lives and duties.


Go BACK to the houses and castles introduction

Go HOME to the top travel page