Transformation of the Inglenook
The Inglenook post-restoration at Springbank House.
Inglenooks are a feature found in large homes and pubs during the “Arts and Crafts” era 1880- 1920). The trend affected lighting design, furniture, wallpaper, architecture — practically everything that human beings could use. Even in literature and movies gave the Arts and Craft movement a voice. A good example would be the round door and interior finishing of Bilbo Baggin’s home in “the Shire” in Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings”.
In essence the Inglenook was supposed to be a small cosy place with a central fireplace and matching benches on either side to create a nook in the wall or even under a large staircases
The problem at Springbank
A pre-restoration image of the Inglenook.
Aside from the obvious cold weather advantage and the cosy look and feel at a distance, it was impractical. Large fireplaces in small enclosed spaces sear the occupants. It was also not visually endearing, it was crammed with sightseeing paraphernalia and a mishmash of odd cushions. The main seats could be generously described as “early- modern Recreational Vehicle”. Put simply, it was a neglected space. Furthermore, if you’ve been unlucky and given the endless task of “tending” a traditional wood-burning fire, you know how much effort is involved. When the B&B staff consists of just two people to cook, serve, and clear away a gourmet breakfast, fire tending is just not an option.
The Project solution to resurrect our Inglenook
The final result of the Inglenook restoration project (see Ella, our Bernese Mountain Dog, in the lower left).
First we reduced the size of BTU output of the fireplace and made it precisely controlled by installing a “Victorian Arch”, gas fireplace. This rooted the space in the style of the house and made it a comfortable place to sit year-round. To this we added Cole & Co. wallpaper in the Arts & Craft style synonymous with the Inglenook’s origins across the ceiling arch with a wood border to draw the eye to this unique architectural detail. Period paint unified the space. Finally, we replaced the seat covers with William Morris heavy fabric and matched them with an array of pillows. Our hope is now that guests will grab a coffee and sit cosily in the Inglenook by the dull glow of the fire to read the paper before or after breakfast. You will have to decide it we hit the mark on this project.*
*Ella, our Bernese Mountain Dog, was and unplanned benefit as she loves the cold tiles...and the people. She is a sure-fire people-magnet.