The Charleston landscape is virtually unchanged in its patchwork layout since the Estate map of 1794, with intact ancient hedgerows dating back to 1622. The Bloomsbury set were drawn to this beauty; inspired to paint by it and to write in it and about it.

In the last half century Charleston has become a wellspring for lovers of literature, craftsmanship and the Bloomsbury way of life. It is a venue of huge importance to an understanding of early twentieth century British culture.

Working with Jamie Fobert Architects and Julian Harrap Architects who are building beautiful new spaces for workshops and festivals, our role was to ensure that the setting for those buildings and the creative activity remains constant, healthy, and inspirational.

The wider context remains critical to the setting and to our ability to see Charleston as the Bloomsbury artists saw it: nestling below the Firle, on the spring line that feeds the pond; framed by ancient woodland, hedgerows and we hope one day, the majestic Elms of Duncan Grant’s paintings.