A peaceful Saturday afternoon offered the perfect chance to visit this local site renowned for the iconic designs of the celebrated Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The adult admission fee of £12 is reasonable for an inspiring and educational experience, especially considering it grants unlimited access for an entire year.
My curiosity in this home is sparked from our Mackintosh clan family name, I would be thrilled if my daughter shared a connection with the brilliant creative mind of Charles Rennie.
Every room contained a concise summary of the features, distinguishing original elements from reproduction or representations based on photographic records. It was evident that the Friends organisation is deeply committed to preserving this historic gem.
The home features striking decor and numerous eye-catching details to admire throughout. Upon entering the kitchen, you begin to explore the house as it would have appeared when the Barrett-Lowkes family moved in back in 1916. You can visit the dining room, hall/sitting room, master and guest bedrooms, and the bathroom. Be mindful, however, that there are stairs to climb as you navigate the narrow hallways that define the layout. Some doors can also be opened, though they are not highlighted, so I felt a bit guilty when I tested the latch on both the hall and toilet doors.
The Barrett-Lowkes collaborated with Mackintosh to design a distinctive home that welcomed intriguing guests like George Bernard Shaw. As a literature enthusiast, this immediately caught my interest. I felt inspired to learn more about this renowned playwright and critic. It must be nearly 40 years since I last read Pygmalion. Shaw must have been a fascinating—and perhaps intimidating—dinner guest, given his reputation as a passionate polemicist. A conversation at my dinner table would surely become lively if topics like his opposition to vaccination or his views on eugenics came up.
Let me draw your attention to the blue, black, and white Guest Bedroom. When I walked in, I experienced a true moment of life symmetry. My family owns a lodge near the beach that I love, but I’ve always found the decor a bit quirky and not quite my style. However, I’ve grown to appreciate the “modernist” design. Now, I can proudly say it’s inspired by Mackintosh!
Hits a Home Run
I highly recommend visiting 78 Derngate, especially on a rainy afternoon. I explored the rooms alone, and unfortunately, I suspect that’s a common experience. The house offers rich artistic inspiration and a captivating glimpse into the lives of affluent, successful residents who could afford to hire one of the era’s finest interior designers.
If you plan ahead, be sure to book a table at the café. Their afternoon tea is incredibly popular. I was fortunate to secure a table for a late lunch, and the meal was delightful—hearty doorstop sandwiches paired with a fresh, flavorful side salad. The gift shop is also packed with charming Charles Rennie Mackintosh treasures, including unique home decor pieces. Overall, a truly enjoyable experience!