Tofte Manor

SP 96 SE SHARNBROOK SOULDROP ROAD

1869/2/495 Tofte Manor 07/05/52

• II

Small C17 mansion extensively renovated and extended 1902. Central gable on south elevation has datestone and motto "Except the Lord build the house their neighbour is but lost that built it 1613". Coursed limestone rubble with ashlar dressings, clay tile roofs. Two storeys. Early house had U plan with wings projecting to north either side of slightly off-centre main entrance, now with large semi-circular headed door, and 3-light mullion and transom window over in large gable. South (garden) elevation has similar entrance with datestone over upper window and flat two-centred head to door. Three gabled dormers, the western over a Cl9 bay window. Tall ashlar stacks with pairs of long pots and corkscrew shafts. 1902 extensions on east side. Battlemented two storey tower block with square full length bay of south side, 6~light mullion and transomed window on each floor. Battlemented garden wall further east links to smaller tower, outbuildings and stables. Double pile two storey extension on north side, dated 1902. Historical note: Part of the interior - the Drawing Room - underwent decoration by James McNeill Whistler in 1880. The decoration consisted of squares of Dutch metal, interleaved with copper resinate. This technique is similar to that employed by Whistler in his most celebrated work, the Peacock Room at 49, Princes Gate, London. Recent investigation (1977) revealed the survival of the ceiling decoration.

Listing NGR: SP9896860206