Rounton Grange

The original Rounton Grange was a substantial brick building of unknown date, and described as being of "poor quality". In 1866, it was purchased by Isaac Lowthian Bell, who originally planned to extend the house. In 1872, he decided instead to demolish the house, and commission Philip Webb to build a replacement, in the Arts and Crafts movement style. The new house was completed in 1876. The existing gardens were redesigned and extended, possibly to designs by Webb. Gertrude Bell altered the gardens in the early 20th century, her work including a rock garden constructed in 1907. The house was designed to be tall and compact, to maximise its impact, and also preserve mature trees nearby. It…