Live inside Julie’s life
Staying at a House for Essex is like living inside a piece of art, a gallery, and a cottage. A House for Essex is one of the most unique stays in the UK. Designed collaboratively by renowned artist Grayson Perry and the esteemed architecture firm FAT (Fashion Architecture Taste), this extraordinary residence offers an unforgettable experience, merging art and living spaces in perfect harmony. Designed to accommodate up to four guests, A House For Essex is an artistic haven that seamlessly integrates thought-provoking artworks, whimsical design elements, and comfortable living spaces.
How often does an artist have the opportunity to create their own utterly immersive piece? A house designed by them, filled with art by them, and a functioning home?
From the moment one sets foot inside, the artistic allure of the house becomes immediately apparent. Every aspect of A House For Essex is imbued with Perry’s distinctive artistic style and narrative. The structure itself resembles a fairytale cottage, with vibrant colors and intricate detailing adorning its façade. A myriad of ceramic tiles and mosaics, designed by Perry, depict a rich tapestry of stories and motifs, offering a visual feast for the eyes and a glimpse into the artist’s imaginative world.
Perry’s approach to A House for Essex is a work dedicated to Julie Cope – a fictional character who feels incredibly real. Her big (written as a piece of poetry) is written in a book to read. The House is both an artwork in and of itself and home to numerous works. Tapestries on the wall illustrate Julie’s key life events. Sculptures, vases, wallpaper, and mosaics are all art pieces in and of themselves.
It is also an homage to Essex itself, Perry’s birthplace, and a deeply resonant home throughout his life. Julie’s story spirals through Essex, and the building itself is a Russian-nesting doll chapel, sanctifying both Julie and the county.
Throughout the house, an extensive collection of artworks by Grayson Perry is on display, further enhancing the immersive experience. Each piece tells a story, intertwining with the house’s architecture and design. From tapestries and ceramics to paintings and sculptures, Perry’s creations offer a glimpse into his unique perspective on contemporary culture, identity, and society. The artworks serve as conversation starters, evoking reflection and introspection, making A House For Essex a sanctuary for contemplation and inspiration.
All of the Living Architecture properties provide the incredible opportunity to stay inside a house constructed from the dreams of some of the greatest architects of the last decades. But A House for Essex is unique even among these because Grayson Perry is first and foremost an artist, a creator of stories and characters
When we were little, we were fascinated by mausoleums that we saw in graveyards, their house-like exterior leading me to imagine that inside one would find a true home for the dead. In a sense, this is how we experienced a House for Essex, but not in a dark way. It felt like a home built to honour every part of Julie’s life and death.
The interior’s covered in tapestries telling the story of Julie’s life. Two bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, and dining area.
HOW TO BOOK
The great news is that Living Architecture has opened the house to booking without the need to enter the ballot. You can book your stay here.
A House for Essex is on the edge of a small village Wrabness in North Essex. It sits on the southern bank of the River Stour with views across the estuary to the neighbouring county of Suffolk. To the east, the river runs out into the North Sea between the ports of Harwich and Felixstowe. To the west, it heads inland past Mistley and Manningtree.
- The nearest railway station is Wrabness (a 2-minute walk to the house) with connections to Harwich, Colchester, and London (Liverpool Street)
- The nearest airport is Stansted (1 hour 10-minute drive to Wrabness)
WHAT ALEJANDRO LIKED
- Architecture
- Spacious kitchen area
- Limited wifi – Perfect for digital detox i.e. board games or reading!!
- Walk in the Stour Estuary nature reserve
WHAT SEBASTIAN LIKED
- Grayson Perry’s tapestry
- Space bath
- Easy commute from London
- Dislike – Non pet friendly 🙁