Society members gather prior to a tour of the house.
Richmond from the eastern hills showing The Stables and Mapledurham to the right.
Members were treated to some wonderful Kiwi hospitality on 23rd of September when they visited 8 Edward Street, Richmond – Mapledurham (formerly Roseneath), the home of John and Carol Syme.
No 8 Edward St (formerly Roseneath) named Mapledurham by the Grigg family after their home village in England
Their house which is listed in the Tasman District Council’s District scheme as a house of “Historic Interest” presented its best face to about 20 members on a day of bright and windy sunshine.
It was built of heart rimu between 1909 and 1910 by Richmond’s well-known builder W.E.Wilkes. With over 3 metre high ceilings,
One of the refurbished bathrooms at Mapledurham
corner fireplaces and two porte-cocheres at the main entrances, it is a beautiful example of Edwardian craftsmanship using New Zealand materials and with its two long verandahs on the north-eastern and west sides of the house designed for New Zealand conditions.
Ensuite bathroom shower head at Mapledurham reproduced in the style of the period.
The north corner of the verandah which runs along two sides of the house has been closed in to make a very useful sunroom.
Bedrooms with over 3 metre high ceilings need fireplaces.high panelled ceilings, ornately carved mantels, polished floors, high skirting boards and solid timber doors and even boasting two
One of the two covered entrance ways giving protection to anyone getting into a carriage or car.
In grand houses these would extend further out over the width of the driveway.
Note the pressed metal sheet in the gable end and detailed wood decoration.
Note the pressed metal sheet and detailed wood decoration.
After the current owners had been introduced to the group, and the President had presented some background information on George Kidd
George Kidd land agent, man of property and Mayor of Richmond 1925-27
the original owner, members were able to wander freely around the property.
Afterwards, John and Carole treated members to a magnificent afternoon tea, very much in keeping with the house and lifestyle of the period. Later the President thanked them and made a presentation of period china.
What a beautiful place and so well maintained.
It has been very well maintained over the years and thoroughly deserves to be listed by the council as a house of historic importance. Fortunately it still has a good area of land around it to set it off. The stables is now a completely separate title with its own access.