The Shack at Mottistone Gardens and Estate

An image of a small single storey wooden building called The Shack in the grounds of Mottistone Garden and Estate, which is stood on stone pillars and clad in wooden singles — The Shack in the grounds of Mottistone Garden and Estate | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

The Shack is a tiny Tardis-like structure designed by architects John Seely and Paul Paget as their country office and retreat at Mottistone Gardens. Step inside to experience a cleverly designed creative space with all the necessary facilities to live a comfortable, if compact, life.

Take a look inside

Inside, The Shack contains all mod cons, 1930s style. It resembles a two-berth cabin on a boat, with matching bunk beds, wardrobes, desks and chairs. Hidden away behind panelling is a cooker, sink and fridge and there is even a small en-suite shower room.

The materials used to build The Shack were some of the most innovative at the time, making it an unusual example of Modern Movement architectural design.

A view inside the single storey wooden building called The Shack at Mottistone Garden and Estate, with wooden in-built furniture, bunk bed and upholstered chairs — Inside The Shack at Mottistone Garden and Estate | © National Trust Images/John Miller

Who were Seely & Paget?

They were friends who met at university and went on to form an architectural partnership in 1926.

John Seely (1899-1963) was the son of the 1st Lord Mottistone, General Jack Seely ('Galloper Jack'). He became 2nd Lord Mottistone in 1947. Paul Paget (1901-1985) was the son of the Bishop of Chester.

Their body of work

Their first commission was the restoration and extension of Mottistone Manor for Seely’s father. Other work included brand new churches, such as St Faith’s Church in Lee-on-Solent and a sparkling art deco residence for Stephen and Virginia Courtauld on the site of Eltham Palace in London.