Ramsgate's architectural gem wins top restoration award
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A Ramsgate landmark has been named one of the most carefully
restored buildings of the past century.
The Grange, a Grade I listed house in St Augustine’s Road, is
the South of England winner of the Restoration of the Century
Award.
Organised by Country Life magazine and the Jackson-Stops and
Staff chain of estate agents, the award celebrates the finest
examples of craftsmanship across the country.
In total, 100 historic buildings were nominated, ranging from
houses and cottages to stable blocks and single rooms.
John Goodall, architectural editor of Country Life, said:
“Judges found that, in the face of extraordinary odds, people had
coaxed life out of buildings that were metaphorically or literally
ruinous.
“At every property, including The Grange, there was an exemplary
restoration to enjoy and a fascinating story to engage with.”
Designed by renowned Victorian architect and designer Augustus
Pugin in 1843, The Grange was rescued by The Landmark Trust in
1996.
After seven years of painstaking research and meticulous work,
including the reconstruction of the roof, extensive masonry repairs
and a thorough clean of the stained glass, furniture and fittings,
the building was restored to its original condition.
The Grange can be now rented by visitors to Ramsgate as a
holiday home, offering a unique chance to enjoy the colourful world
Pugin created for himself, to share the same merriment he once
enjoyed in the panelled dining room and to sit in Pugin’s library,
surrounded by walls painted with the names of his favourite people
and places.
All income from lettings is spent on the maintenance of the
building, allowing it to be enjoyed by generations to
come.
Wednesday, October 20 2010
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