The Studio shop

Interior of the Studio shop

** The Studio shop is closed until further notice.** Our shop is situated in the Studio, a building separate from the main house in the courtyard of Mompesson House. It is thought that the Studio, with its twin pyramid roofs, was originally the wash house with a pig sty at one end. Little is known about its use until the 1960s when the last resident Denis Martineau converted the building into a bedsit, where he could stay while repairs and renovations were taking place in the main house.

At each corner of the north end of the Studio he fitted a cupboard; one was used as a miniature kitchen and the other had a hand basin. His interior decoration is indicative of the time, from the bold patterned wallpaper and acid colours to the false pegboard ceiling. It has survived intact as the Studio has been used for storage since 1977. It was therefore decided to preserve the interior and create a shop inspired by Denis Martineau’s decoration.

Denis Martineau's wallpaper has been preserved.
Interior of the Studio shop
Denis Martineau's wallpaper has been preserved.

The Studio needed very few changes to transform it into a shop. The original Marley floor tiles were damaged; therefore a new floor has been laid which is close to the original in terms of colour and design. Denis’ original light fixtures have been rewired, including his wonderful sky blue ceiling lamp, which now takes pride of place in front of the tills. A range of bespoke shop fittings, inspired by Ercol furniture, were designed for the shop. These are in bright and bold colours to complement Denis Martineau’s décor.

The exterior of the Studio shop in evening sunshine.
The exterior of the Studio shop in evening sunshine.
The exterior of the Studio shop in evening sunshine.