Historic Scotland - Stewarton

NOTES:
This impressive and distinctive Art and Crafts villa, set within its own grounds
is an important part of the architectural development of Stewarton Stylistically
unique in the town and designed by a notable architect, it forms an impressive
feature when entering Stewarton from the South East. The asymmetric plan,
shaped gables and large glazed openings with casement windows are all
typical features of Arts and Crafts architecture.
The Arts and Crafts movement was one of the key design movements of the late 19th
and early 20th centuries. It had an impact on many rooms of artistic works, particularly
domestic architecture. The movement focussed on hand-crafted processes
and was interested in using local natural materials.
Known particularly fur the bonnet making since the 16th century, Stewarton's
wealth was derived primarily from its mills,which developed from the beginning of the
19th century.
It was common for mill owners to build large houses in the area close to their mills and
this house was built for a Mr Cunningham, who is thought to have been a factory or mill
owner.
The stained glass window in the entrance hall depicts a lady sitting down and
prominently wearing a bonnet and this is thought to be a direct reference to Stewarton
bonnets and the profession of the owner. The grandeur of the house and its
fashionable design is testimony to the wealth of the owner. Henry Edward Clifford (1852-
1932) was a Glasgow-based architect whose apprenticeship was spent with John Burnet.
His prolific output included both public and private buildings, mainly in the West of
Scotland. This villa is a good example of his domestic Arts and Crafts style.
List description updated as part of Stewarton Burgh resurvey, 2009.
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