I’ll Take This: Mini-Downton Abbey

Since it looks like it’s shaped up to be house week here at Pigtown*Design, I thought I’d cross the pond and show you a mini version of Downton Abbey – yours for a mere £465,000. Actually not a bad price. Georgian, of course, and with a 300-year old pedigree to go along with it. Here’s a little history of the place: Commissioned in 1673 by William Hudson, a wealthy merchant and Chief Lord of the manor of Bridlington, The Toft was designed to display Hudson's new found wealth and status. The property was originally a two story house with attic accommodation and a cupola to the south elevation so that Hudson could keep an eye on his ships at the Quay. The property remained in the Hudson family until the mid eighteenth century. In around 1840, the house was remodelled with a third story added, the interior however was of such quality that it remained largely untouched.

The entry hall with its marble floor and brilliant red lacquered walls is gorgeous, but the real feature in this room is the different pediments over each of the doors leading to the principal rooms.

The timber paneled dining room has a gorgeous Doric-framed chimney breast and window seats under leaded glass windows. The floor looks like it could use a bit of refinishing, and I am sure the paneling could use a good scrub with oil soap as well.

The first floor drawing room with moulded paneling, concealed storage cupboards and ornate carved chimneypiece, is one of the unique features of this house.