An Exemplary Arts and Crafts Home in Surrey Hills, Pioneering Modernism

By Edwin Heathcote

Renowned architect Charles Voysey once expressed his desire to see his family sitting at a table without being cluttered by ornamental furniture, but instead surrounded by guardian angels. Voysey, a leading figure in the Arts and Crafts movement, has been credited with influencing the development of Modernism, even though he himself was more aligned with medievalism and British handicrafts rather than functionalism. His minimalist, white-walled houses with open, flowing interiors left a lasting impression on architects in Europe, particularly in Austria and Germany where he was highly revered and extensively featured in magazines.

One of Voysey’s notable creations, Greyfriars, was constructed in 1896 near Guildford for Julian Sturgis, an American-British banker, writer, and librettist. The 15-bedroom property, originally named Merlshanger, is now on the market for £4.5mn. Situated on the Hog’s Back ridge in the North Downs, Greyfriars offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. The entrance to the house, typical of Voysey’s designs, is understated yet elegant, featuring a covered porch with a studded oak door. Upon entering, one is greeted by a low-ceilinged hall, which contrasts with the grand entrances of other Edwardian-era mansions.

The house boasts various public rooms, including the remarkable drawing room. This double-height space, referred to as the “Library” in Voysey’s original plans, features a large bay window with a built-in bench seat. The room blends elements of Neo-Tudor and Charles Rennie Mackintosh styles, creating a harmonious combination of classic and modern design. Greyfriars spans an expansive 1,245 sq m and has the potential for additional bedrooms if desired. Many of the existing bedrooms have been updated with en-suite bathrooms, addressing a common concern with older houses. The property also includes larders, pantries, boot-rooms, workshops, a second-floor guest suite, a “penthouse apartment,” and 27 acres of lush woodland.

What truly sets Greyfriars apart is its exquisite interior detailing. From heart-shaped lock escutcheons and cabinet knobs to original fireplaces in brick, copper, and green tile, Voysey’s meticulous craftsmanship is evident throughout. Despite some alterations made by Herbert Baker—known for his collaboration with Edwin Lutyens and controversial modifications to John Soane’s work at the Bank of England—Greyfriars remains a quintessential Voysey house. Its gabled roofs, roughcast walls, original mullioned windows, and intricately designed spaces exude a sense of intimacy and domestic charm, even on a grand scale.

Greyfriars is a testament to Charles Voysey’s architectural prowess and attention to detail. Its timeless beauty captivates visitors, inviting them to appreciate the marriage of history and modernity within its walls.

Photography: Knight Frank