Brackenfell, Brampton, Cumbria

Brackenfell is a typically modernist building with flat roof and large south facing Crittall windows but demonstrates a move away from the white concrete of earlier modernism. The main structure is of local red brick, there are detail elements with local grey sandstone and the porte cochere being the only significant bit of concrete.

Speight and Martin were in their early twenties when commissioned to design Brackenfell marking the start of their practice during which they designed many ground braking buildings together. Martin later became head of architecture at London County Council and had a guiding hand in much of London’s post war redevelopment, he was eventually knighted for his services to architecture. Speight had a similar influential career as a founder member of the Design Research Unit. She has unfortunately been rather forgotten by history.

Alistair Morton had a very prominent role in textile design during the 1930s and the large studio in the house allowed him to work from home and entertain clients and buyers. It’s a prominent feature of the house.

We have lived here since 2003 and in the past 23 years have carried out sensitive repairs to ensure the house survives in good and original condition.

Timings

Friday 11 September:

By appointment

Saturday 12 September:

By appointment

Sunday 13 September:

By appointment

Monday 14 September:

By appointment

Tuesday 15 September:

By appointment

Wednesday 16 September:

By appointment

Thursday 17 September:

By appointment

Friday 18 September:

By appointment

Saturday 19 September:

By appointment

Sunday 20 September:

By appointment

Location & directions

Brackenfell, Capon Tree Road, Brampton, Cumbria, CA8 1QL

Directions:

Signpost at end of drive. Come to the top of the drive and park as directed. Please do not obstruct the drive, access for a neighbouring property is required at all times.

Contact on day:

Jeremy Melling

Telephone number:

+447958465632

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

Brackenfell will be open throughout the event. Pre book by text or WhatsApp stating preferred time and date with number of visitors and we will provide confirmation.

Booking contact name:

Jeremy Melling

Booking telephone number:

+447958465632

Booking email:

[email protected]

Accessibility details

This is a private dwelling and access is difficult. There are steps at each external door. There is no lift to the first floor.

Additional information

There may be some ongoing repair work to the building during the visits. This will not compromise access or safety and hopefully it will help demonstrate some of the difficulties in maintaining such a property.

Max number of people:

8

Estimated duration:

1 hour(s)

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