100 Buildings 100 Years

1971: Anderton House, Devon

Status: Listed Grade II*
Condition: Good condition
Type: Housing
Architect: Aldington and Craig
Owners: Landmark Trust
Location: Rigg Side, Goodleigh, Devon

Ian and May Anderton, family friends of Peter Aldington from Preston, commissioned a retirement home in 1969. Aldington had developed a practice in Buckinghamshire, including a house for himself, that combines concrete block and tiles with old walls and render in historic Haddenham. In Devon the long house plan set across the hillside similarly reflects local traditions, while the timber frame could be prefabricated under Aldington’s scrutiny nearer home.

The complex brief was developed with Aldington’s partner John Craig. A pen between the kitchen and living area allowed Mr Anderton to work amid a clutter of papers without being cut off from his meticulously tidy wife.

The Landmark Trust acquired the house after Mrs Anderton’s death and restored it with Aldington’s help; sourcing appropriate kitchen equipment proved the greatest difficulty. Here is a rare opportunity to stay in a great modern house and savour its high spaces and rich detailing.

by Elain Harwood

Landmark Trust