The Glasshouse
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Always Enabled
We use necessary cookies to ensure our website works properly and provide essential functionalities and security features. These cookies do not collect any personal information and are always enabled. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our use of these cookies.
V:8 - 2024-08-12 03:40:14pm
Functional cookies enable specific functionalities such as social media sharing, feedback collection, and other third-party features. These cookies may collect anonymous data to improve user experience.
V:8 - 2024-08-12 03:40:14pm
To enhance user experience, we use performance and analytical cookies to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of our website. Performance cookies help us deliver better user experiences by tracking metrics such as load times and response times. Analytical cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website by providing information on metrics like the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, and more.
V:8 - 2024-08-12 03:40:14pm
After a stunning refurbishment, our historic Lounges now feature a cocktail bar, ideal for sipping drinks or enjoying sushi. We spoke to interior designer, Martin Hulbert about his inspiration and the design process that created these breath-taking rooms.
What was your starting point in the design process and what did you ultimately want to achieve?
I did not want to lose the spirit the Lounges had so successfully embodied in the 15 years since they were created. In their redesign I have tried to achieve a more hand-made and natural feel and make them a little more relaxed.
The Lounges, being part of the mansion, are steeped in history. In what way did you ensure that the spaces maintained their original character?
All the Lounges had original fireplaces, cornices and architraves. They were meant for entertaining guests. With their floor-to-ceiling doors and windows, they open out on to terraces with gardens beyond. It seems entirely appropriate to continue to use them as they had been.
There’s so many different colour schemes as you walk through each lounge. Talk us through the thought process behind this?
The colour schemes are derived from the natural aspect of each room. The blue room as you enter the Lounges is naturally a dark space. As you progress though, the Lounges gradually become lighter. At the last lounge, the panoramic one, the blue is brighter because sunlight reaches the room most of the day. The colour schemes are intended to be calm but with occasional sparks of interest throughout.
Where did you source the furniture?
Some of the furniture has been reupholstered from previous pieces. New items have been designed by us specifically for each room, together with new and antique items sourced from around the world.
You’ve mentioned previously that you don’t follow current trends when designing, where do you get your inspiration from?
It was particularly important for me that the new interiors have a more hand-made feel about them. I have been inspired over the years by the many artists and craftspeople I have worked with. I was also very keen to create new interiors that feel they belong in this Georgian building but also look forward. The gardens at The Grove and the naturalness of their surroundings are a particular inspiration.
Tell us about the wall coverings, they are a real stand-out feature.
It is quite classical to have vertical stripes on walls in traditional interiors. This was my start point. To make them more contemporary and hand-made, I literally hand-painted abstract stripes on to heavy-duty sackcloth. This was then screen-printed to produce a continuous design.
Which room in the Lounges is your favourite and why?
I especially like the Library. It contains most of the original features, while the rich green hand-painted wall coverings really connect with the garden. I also love the Library’s combination of furniture and art.
You’ve worked with us for years now, aside from the Lounges, where is your favourite spot in the whole of The Grove?
That’s hard to say. There are so many good memories I have in helping to create The Grove. My favourite spots change all the time. I am particularly pleased by the colours and spirit of the recently updated Glasshouse.
More From Meet the team
The re-creation of The Glasshouse is nearly complete – we can almost hear the drum roll! We caught up with the interior designer behind it all, Martin Hulbert, who gave us some fascinating insights into how his vision for The Glasshouse came together.
A close encounter with a bird of prey can be truly unforgettable, especially in today’s world. That’s why The Grove offers Woodland Hawking experiences year-round for ages 3 and up. We spoke with Grant Fear, the man behind the glove, about his passion for falconry.
Our key partner in delivering creative team events is Fruitful. We caught up with their founder, Russell Allen, who shared some fascinating insights and secrets of success.
Or call 01923 296010
Spa Experiences
Book an experience
Spa Treatments
Book a treatment
Membership Portal
Log in as a Sequoia Spa member
Or call 01923 296010
Or call 01923 296010