Red House
Red House in Bexleyheath, on the edge of London, is regarded by many as one of the world's most important houses. Many have seen it as not only the start of the English Arts and Crafts movement but more generally the modernist movement of the 20th century. Though such claims are undoubtedly overstated, the house has always been a place that people have loved to live in, to visit and view; and to pay homage to.
Phiplip Webb the architect, and William Morris - his client and friend - were both at the begining of their careers when the house was built in 1859 and 1860. It proved a focus for their ideas about architecture and art, for their love of the English and the Medieval, and for their wish to do new things. It was to be a platform for their our futures and thse of their immediate circle, and also for many of the artistic developments of the late 19th century. Since Morris's departure in 1865 a number of people have lived there, often with an artistic or architectural background. Despite a difficult period in the 1940's the house has been retained with most of its original structural features and in the last 50 years the Hollamby family and their friends have made sure that its status as a famous house and a beautiful place to live has been protected. Its purchase in 2003 by the National Trust ensures that it will remain protected and accessible in perpetuity.