John Webb, William Samwell and the Grange

Abstract

The Grange at Northington, Hampshire, originally a great house of the 17th century by William Samwell, but clad in Greek dress by William Wilkins in 1809, has recently been reconstructed on paper to show the complexity of its planning. This article sets out the arguments for the reconstruction, and resolves the question of the original roof in favour of an eaves cornice. The physical reinstatement of the 19th-century staircase is also assessed for what it tells us about the history and design of both this and the original staircase. The author then examines the antecedents of the overall design, finding many connexions between Samwell and Inigo Jones's pupil and heir, John Webb. A surviving design drawing for the Grange, which differs from what was actually built, is shown to reveal much about Samwell's distinctive thoroughness in building the house. Finally, the place of the Grange in Samwell's oeuvre is considered, particularly in relation to Bushy House, his other complete surviving house.