In this captivating narrative, we delve into the world of Polly Powell, a woman with a unique perspective on architecture and a deep-rooted passion for restoring old houses. With a personal connection to one of London's most iconic buildings, the Barbican, Polly's journey takes an unexpected turn as she transforms a forgotten Georgian gem into a vibrant creative hub.
A Family Legacy
Polly's story begins with her father, Geoffrey Powell, one of the visionary architects behind the Barbican. This landmark structure, once controversial, has now become a beloved symbol of London's architectural prowess. With her mother also an architectural conservator, it's no surprise that Polly inherited a profound appreciation for the art and science of building preservation.
The Fading Georgian Pile
Enter the faded Georgian pile in Ramsgate, a sea captain's home turned air raid shelter and, later, a veterinary practice. This dilapidated structure caught Polly's eye, and she saw beyond its current state, envisioning its potential. The house, with its rich history, became a labor of love for Polly, who spent over a year carefully restoring it to its former glory.
Uncovering Hidden Treasures
During the restoration process, Polly uncovered hidden treasures. Fireplaces and paneling, long buried under layers of plastic, were revealed. But the most surprising discovery was an original 1820s staircase, preserved almost perfectly, with remnants of Regency wallpaper still visible. This find added a layer of intrigue and historical depth to the project.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Present
Not everything could be restored, and here, Polly's creative vision shone through. The original Georgian bow-front, long gone, was replaced with a more modest Edwardian design, yet a small detail remained—a stained-glass roundel with a sea-green center. This inspired Polly to follow a green thread, leading her to a glass merchant in Loughborough, ensuring the house's unique character was preserved.
A Creative Hub is Born
Makers' House, as Polly named it, is more than just a restored house. It's a creative hub, a place where authors, artists, and readers can come together not just over books but around the act of making. The residential workshops, hosted by celebrated textile artists, offer an immersive experience, allowing participants to learn and create in a unique environment.
A Celebration of Craft and Community
Polly's passion for craft and community is evident in her plans for the Ramsgate Festival of Craft. This town-wide initiative, launching in 2027, will celebrate Ramsgate's rich maritime heritage and culture of making. It's a testament to Polly's belief in the value of skills and the importance of teaching and sharing knowledge.
The Power of Making in a Digital Age
In a world increasingly dominated by digital technology, Polly sees the renewed interest in craft as a response to our fast-paced, online-centric lives. She believes in the value of making, of learning through our hands, and in the unique role books play in offering a chance to ponder and pause, a luxury often lacking in our digital realm.
A Place Where Past and Present Converge
Maker's House, with its rediscovered staircases and accumulated histories, is not just a restored house but a living, breathing space where the past and present coexist. It's a testament to Polly's vision and her family's legacy, a place where creativity flourishes and community thrives.
