Revolutionizing Georgian Manor: BOX 9 Unveils Stunning Circular Craft Designs!

Transforming a Historic Palladian Manor into Modern Hospitality

The transformation of the Grade I listed Palladian manor into a modern hospitality venue is a delicate balance of preserving historical integrity while introducing contemporary functionality. At Denton Reserve, a historic structure from 1778 in North Yorkshire designed by John Carr, this was achieved not by adding new elements, but by carefully removing layers of past decorations that had masked the original Georgian architectural essence. The architectural team from BOX 9 utilized a method of subtraction and precise placement, adhering to strict heritage guidelines that restrict permanent partitions or built-ins. Their innovative design approach allows for the placement of bathrooms and furniture pieces as free-standing, sculptural elements that complement rather than disrupt the inherent spatial flow, enhancing both aesthetics and utility while maintaining crucial sightlines.

Embracing Local Materials and Craftsmanship

Why the 12-5-30 Incline Walking Method Is the Ultimate Fat-Burning Workout, According to Fitness Experts

The ultimate trick to banish mold from your bathroom grout in just 7 minutes—no vinegar or baking soda needed

The renovation’s material selection is deeply rooted in the local landscape of the Yorkshire Dales, incorporating elements like soil, stone, heather, and moorland moss into the design finishes and textures. An exemplary piece is the heather chandelier created by Studio Amos, which uses materials harvested from the moor to craft a piece that is both a functional light fixture and a piece of environmental art. In the reception area, a table made from British oak and adorned with sculptural cork spheres—designed in collaboration with Ted Jefferis—highlights cork as a focal material for its insulation and sound-dampening properties, which are used extensively throughout the property in various forms including cladding and structural elements.

In the living room, Leleni Studio showcases a table entirely crafted from offcuts of marble, turning what would be industry waste into a central, visually striking furniture piece. The games room features an innovative redesign by Jan Hendzel Studio, which repurposes an original marquetry boardroom table into a circular gaming table, complete with hand-turned legs and intricate card designs inlaid into the surface.

Integrating Nature and Craft in Guest Experiences

In the guest rooms, Or This Studio, led by Jason Posnot, introduces solid wool furniture pieces that are strategically positioned to frame views of the moorland and its grazing sheep, transforming these vistas into curated experiences. The innovation extends even to the paint used on the walls, which is mixed with crushed olive stones to create a textured finish that shifts in appearance with the natural light variations throughout the day.

Lou Davies, commenting on the project’s ethos, states, “We aimed for an extraordinarily high standard where every material and piece contributes to a legacy of positive change. This meant supporting sustainable practices, empowering local artisans and studios, and fostering innovation. We were committed to using materials that could either rejuvenate the landscape or enhance our engagement with craftsmanship. Anything that didn’t meet these criteria was not used. Our choices were made with respect, minimal waste, and with the intention to inspire ongoing care and connection with both craft and nature.”

This thoughtful and meticulous approach to redesigning Denton Reserve not only respects its historical significance but also sets a new benchmark for integrating modern hospitality within heritage structures.