Standen was built in 1892-4 for a prosperous London solicitor, James Beale, and his large family. He chose Philip Webb as his architect, who was one of William Morris' closest friends and colleagues. Standen takes its name from one of three farms which James Beale purchased in 1890 - Great Hollybush, Stone and Standen. Standen farmhouse was a small low-pitched cottage which stood to the south of the present house and was demolished in 1896. It was Great Hollybush farmhouse which Philip Webb incorporated into the new house.