Carr Manor

Carr Manor is a Victorian grade II listed house in Meanwood, Leeds, England, designed by Edward Schroeder Prior and built for Thomas Clifford Allbutt M.D. (1836–1925). In 1881 it replaced Carr Manor House, though retaining the 1796 stable block. The former gardener's and housekeeper's cottages, the former stables (now garage) and the wall, gate piers and gates are also grade II listed.

It was Richard Norman Shaw’s custom to give setting up commissions to his former pupils. Carr Manor was Edward Schroeder Prior’s setting up commission on his departure in 1880. The house shows more of influence from Philip Webb than from Shaw. It follows the local vernacular of strong stone built manor houses of the 17th century.

The influence of Shaw is recognisable. In particular, Shaw’s houses at Flete House (1877–83) and Adcote (1875—80) were influential. Prior adopted Shaw’s entrance hall scheme, rather than the vernacular screens passage that is characteristic of Yorkshire manor houses. The west side includes black and white work, reminiscent of Shaw. A Flemish influence is also apparent in the crow stepped gables of the east and west front. The local vernacular is also clearly an influence with stepped label mouldings, stepped windows and parapets. The window glass is based on 16th and 17th century patterns and as a prelude to Prior’s later extensive use of stained glass there is stained glass on pastel colours and geometric designs in the windows of the upper floors.

Despite the restrictions on planning imposed by the existing layout, Carr Manor demonstrates Prior’s concern to link the building to its garden. The house turns its back on the road looking south over the garden, which he planned in conjunction with the house.

Prior’s work at Carr Manor completely integrated the existing 17th century manor into the new house. He added the library, conservatory room, drawing room and dining room. The auxiliary buildings were reworked from the 18th century facilities. The relationship between the main block and the service accommodation was defined by the plan of the existing building, rather than designed as a response to site, unlike most of Prior’s later buildings.

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