Farringford House, Freshwater, Isle of Wight: analysis of decorative finishes & wallpapers, selected interiors, focusing on Alfred Lord Tennyson's period of occupancy (1856-1892) [architectural paint research]

Crick Smith University of Lincoln were appointed by the owner of Farringford House to carry out analysis of the decorative and surface material within selected interiors of the building to inform the treatment of such, and make recommendations for the suitable decorative scheme for the House. The desire is to reflect, within the redecoration of the house, the period of Alfred Lord Tennyson's occupancy. This began in 1853, when he first rented the property, from 1856, when he purchased it through until his death in 1892. The development of the house is generally understood and depicted in figures 1 - 3. Objective & Method To carry out research and analysis of the paint finishes and surviving historic wall papers within the prescribed interiors, to inform decision making about the restoration proposals, with a view to recommending appropriate treatments of historic decorative finishes whilst repair works are carried out. Particular emphasis is paid to the period of occupation of Alfred Lord Tennyson. The results of this research will also allow Crick Smith to provide advice and make recommendations on the conservation of historic decorative finishes in-situ and advise the management team on options for redecoration of the significant areas throughout the house. This will be available on an ongoing basis, at appropriate times as work progresses.