- 78 Derngate
78 Derngate is a Grade II* listed Georgian house in the
Derngate area ofNorthampton ,England , originally built in the 1820's. It's noted for its interior, which was extensively remodelled in1916 and1917 by noted architectCharles Rennie Mackintosh for businessman Wenman JosephBassett-Lowke .The rear elevation also features a striking extension with two elevated balconies which, in
1917 , overlooked meadowland to the edge of Northampton. The design origins of this extension have been the subject of some scholarly debate and a myth of Mackintosh as a Modernist pioneer in his late career has persisted [Kaplan, Wendy(ed.). "Charles Rennie Mackintosh," Abbeville Press, 1996. ISBN 0-7892-0080-5. page 211.] . However, recent research [http://78derngate.org.uk/hist6.html 78derngate.org.uk – History of the house compiled bySylvia Pinches , former curator of 78 Derngate.] ] suggests thatBassett-Lowke andAlexander Ellis Anderson (a Northampton based architect who supervised the remodelling) may also have had a hand in the design of this structure as well as Mackintosh.Between
1964 and1993 the building was used byNorthampton High School for Girls , initially as offices but later as classrooms. In2002 work started to restore the house to Mackintosh's original design. After eighteen months of restoration, the house was opened to the public in late2003 . Small group guided tours or self guided visits are available and provide an insight into this stunning and rare example of a Mackintosh-designed house in England. A supporting museum adjoins 78 Derngate and is housed in number 80. In May2007 a new visitors centre at82 Derngate was opened to provide further facilities and exhibitions for visitors.References
External links
* [http://www.78derngate.org.uk/ 78 Derngate website]
* [http://www.bbc.co.uk/northamptonshire/asop/northampton/78_derngate_feature.shtml BBCi: 78 Derngate]
Wikimedia Foundation. 2010.