Milford Lake House

SU 46 SE HIGHCLERE HIGHCLERE PARK 2/30 16.5.66 Milford Lake House

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Early C18, mid C19. A purlion or summerhouse, erected on the dam of a large artificial lake, probably by Lord Pembroke or possible by William Kent, with additions and renovation at the later date (by Barry). The wide facade (south-east) to the lake is symmetrical, with a tall centrepiece, linked by low passageways on each side to pedimented pavilions; the outer blocks have one window and the other units have each a central doorway with a window on each side. Walling is in pale brickwork, with blue header diaper patterns, with rustication at the corners and on each side of the doorways, plinth; stone is used for the features, including modillion cornices, flat-arched openings with keys, cills, and finials. The centrepiece has a blind arch above the plain doorway, with a stone key, and rusticated spandrels, supported on broad rusticated pilasters; at each side is a window with a stone arch and key, and a panel above. The sides comprise rusticated pilasters. Across the whole centrepiece is a cornice and above, in the centre, is a tall parapet containing a panel, with another cornice and blocking course; on each side the wall curves downwards to the top of the side pilasters. The end pavilions have a modillion cornice, arranged as a pediment, a brickwork frieze (of pale diapers on a dark ground), a plain stone band (which crosses the whole building as the impost band of the central arches). The passage sections, topped by the 'impost' band, have rusticated pilasters on each side of the arched doorways. At each point above corners or pilasters there are ball finials, with an ornate vase in the middle of the centrepiece. Sashes in reveals; panelled doors. Low-pitched slate roofing, above the central block is the square base of a stack, with 4 flues separated by arches. The structure has been extended to the rear, in matching style. Within the central entrance is a tall room, from which corridors lead to the end pavilions; these interiors have the full classical treatment, including a panelled ceiling, ornate doorcases and a mantelpiece. Ref Colin. Biographical Dictionary of British Architects p 415.

Listing NGR: SU4436159744