The Riding House: the 17th century stables of St Giles House in Dorset, England

Abstract

The Riding House is an outstanding example of the historic evolution of the equestrian stabling in an English country house. The building, which had been unoccupied for a number of years, was repaired and a new use sympathetic with the floor plan and its historic fabric and significance introduced. An initial survey and historical analysis were undertaken to understand the condition and evolution of the stables and to guide the conservation works. The timber roof and floor structures were sensitively repaired and fire, thermal and acoustic upgrades introduced. The external walls were repointed and cracks stitched. Only decayed fabric beyond repair was replaced to match and recorded. Historic lath and plaster ceilings and partitions, floors, windows and doors were retained and made good. Blocked doorways and windows were reopened with the aim to reinstate the movement and visual dialogue with the main house and its gardens lost during the 19th century works.

Keywords

• conservación
• rehabilitación
• establos
• reapertura
• análisis histórico