Beechlands

Detached three-bay single-storey gate lodge, extant 1908, on a T-shaped plan centred on single-bay single-storey gabled advanced open porch. Extended, 1986, producing present composition. For sale, 2012. Chamfered slate-detailed hipped slate roof on a T-shaped plan centred on chamfered slate-detailed pitched (gabled) slate roof on chamfered timber posts, perforated crested terracotta ridge tiles extending into terracotta ridge tiles, red brick Common bond central chimney stack on chamfered cushion course on red brick Common bond base having "Cavetto" stringcourse below capping supporting terracotta pots, timber bargeboards to gable on timber purlins, and replacement uPVC rainwater goods on timber eaves boards on exposed timber rafters. Red brick Common bond walls on red brick header bond chamfered cushion course on red brick Common bond base. Round- or segmental-headed central door opening with cut-granite step threshold, and red brick voussoirs framing timber boarded door having overlight. Camber- or segmental-headed flanking window openings with red brick voussoirs framing two-over-two timber sash windows. Set back from line of road at entrance to grounds of Beechlands.

A gate lodge not only contributing positively to the group and setting values of the Beechlands estate, but also illustrating the continued development or "improvement" of the estate by Sir Edward O'Farrell (d. 1926) with the architectural value of the composition, one eliciting strong comparisons with a contemporary gate lodge (1895) at Padua [Desmond] (see 6026----), suggested by such attributes as the compact plan form centred on an expressed porch; the construction in a vibrant red brick; the gentle "sweep" of the openings; and the high pitched roof showing a polygonal "fish scale" slate finish. Having been well maintained, the elementary form and massing survive intact together with substantial quantities of the original fabric, thus upholding the character or integrity of a gate lodge making a pleasing, if largely inconspicuous visual statement in a sylvan street scene.