Inspiration of the Week: a view through the ages at Wingfield House

There’s no shortage of ancient beauty in Wiltshire. As well as its remarkable prehistoric monuments and the rolling Cotswold hills, the county – 40 per cent of which is classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – is home to some of the prettiest villages (and consequently houses) in the country. Among them is surely Wingfield House, an early 18^th-century manor near Bradford-on-Avon, which has recently come on the market.

One of four dwellings on the site (the house was divided in the 1940s), this home occupies the most significant portion: the original Georgian house. (The estate was added to and extended to accommodate staff, bachelor relations and children – not least in the late 19^th century, under the stewardship of the Caillard family.) Happily, the hallmarks from this period remain in situ, notably in the blue drawing room, its high ceilings complemented by crisp neoclassical moulding, fine panelling and folding shutters.

This isn’t to say Wingfield House is one-note, however. In 1899 – not long before the building would be transformed for use as a military hospital in World War I – an Arts and Crafts ballroom was added. With its barrel-vaulted ceiling, trefoil windows and large inglenook containing a Tudorish fireplace, it would have made a strong statement of grandeur and taste ­­– and today stands as an elegant marker of architecture through the ages.

More recently, Wingfield House’s owners have undertaken extensive renovations of a no-stone-unturned sort. Not only have they repaired the roof with old Cotswolds stone (and insulated it while they there), they’ve installed an independent heating system and replaced the kitchen and bathrooms throughout. When it comes to aesthetics, their approach has been similarly sensitive. Particular mention goes to the magnificent hand-carved gothic cabinetry and ravishing stained-glass oriel window inspired by the Pre-Raphaelites in the master bedroom.

Layer upon layer of love and attention have seen this house shift and change – proof that old houses don’t stand still when cared for properly. Are you ready to add the next?