, >'*\;"i' ^."A">1 .>T**,*!* ./fiLtr J -rf„H JOHNA.SEAVERNS W -> « u<> 1 Webster F ^c^'cine r ^ ' neat EXAMPLES OF Stables^ Hunting- Boxes^ Kennels^ Racing Establishments^ ^c. BY JOHN BIRCH ARCHITECT AUTHOR OF 'designs FOR LABOURERS' COTTAGES,' TO WHICH WAS AWARDED THE MEDAL AND PREMIUM OF THE SOCIETY OF ARTS, 'COUNTRY ARCHITECTURE, ' STABLES AND COUNTRY MANSIONS,' 'PICTURESQUE LODGES,' 'CONCRETE BUILDINGS FOR LANDED ESTATES,' ETC. WILLIAM BLACKWOOD AND SONS EDINBURGH AND LONDON MDCCCXCII ,-/// Hij^hfs reset Vi.d TO THE RIGHT HONOURABLE ALLEN ALEXANDER BATHURST, EARL BATHURST, Etc. MASTER OF THE VALE OF WHITE HORSE FOX -HOUNDS, THIS WORK IS INSCRIBED, AS A MARK OF THE AUTHOR'S ESTEEM AND RESPECT. PREFACE. A T the suggestion of my friends, and as a lover of the horse — one of the noblest, most useful, and perhaps the most abused animal of creation — I desire to place before my readers this little work, in the hope that these " Examples of Stables" may be considered worthy of emulation by some lovers of this animal desirous of seeing him properly housed and cared for ; and trust the hints and suggestions contained in this volume will be found generally useful to those requiring to build new stables, or who may have occasion to add to or remodel their present buildings. Many a one having to leave in great haste for the country, with little or no time to spare, has had good reason to be thankful for the speed of the thoroughbred, in not only reaching their railway station in time to catch their train, but oftentimes with a few minutes to the good. Such horses are frequently to be met with running in well-appointed hansom- cabs in this overgrown metropolis ; and this is, I fear, the end- ing of many a promising two-year-old reared for speed and not endurance. I do not profess to have any knowledge of the veterinary surgeon's art, but I should very much like to see some really b successful improvement in the way of horse-shoes. I consider there are good opportunities in this direction both in respect to the form of shoe and the method of shoeing. We have not yet succeeded in finding a suitable description of street-paving calculated to afford a sound and good foothold for the animals, and at the same time durable and inexpensive. The shoes which are put on horses are made to obtain this kind of foothold ; but the shape and form of the shoe are never thought of in the construction of the upper surface of the road- way, and it is absurd thus to give a purchase to the animal in pulling his load without some suitable going for a good grip. The present street-paving is not at all satisfactory, and con- sequently nearly always more or less under repair. Had the same pains and expense been incurred in forming the old- fashioned granite roads as is now incurred in keeping the present wood-block paving in position, the result would have been much more satisfactory and much less expensive, as the first outlay would be the only expense attending it. I feel cer- tain that the granite-paved road, on a hard Portland cement bed well laid to a good curve, would be much more durable, better for the horse's feet, and much cleaner for the foot-passenger, than any other kind which has since been devised. It would be a saving to the ratepayer, in this respect that repairs would be less frequent. The maintenance of our present system of paving forms a serious item, and anything likely to reduce the burden should not be thrown away. Again, under the present condition of our streets at certain times in wet weather, it is quite impossible for a foot-passenger to pass along the populous thoroughfares without being be- spattered with mud of a very adhesive description. Such is not the case with stone-paving laid to proper falls, which is with every shower of rain washed clean. The wood-block paving- and the asphalt now so much in use encourage the formation of this peculiar kind of mud, and a good shower of rain fails to remove it. Apart from this, the painful sights one meets with of poor brutes struggling under heavy bur- dens, straining themselves beyond their strength, is sufficient to justify complaints as to the unsatisfactory condition of our streets. The clattering of the hoof and noise of the wheels are quite as much felt on this material as on the granite. The latter well curved and not too closely fitted together on the upper surface, affords the horse a good foothold and going. He looks for a good grip on the hard ground quite as much as he does on the turf, and should he happen to fall, has some chance of getting on his legs again. I trust shortly some better plan will be devised for street-paving, affording greater cleanliness, less interruption in repairs, and in view of more humane treatment for the animal. The old roads such as the Romans made are preferable in every way to those now in favour. I am sure many who have some little acquaintance with this subject will agree with me. I miorht now call attention to the stables in this laree metropolis for the accommodation of omnibus and cab horses, and the like, as well as that of the humbler class, such as the small carmen, green-grocer, firewood purveyors, coster- mongers, and other small tradespeople struggling for existence. Large bus and cab companies must endeavour to pay as good dividends as possible, and frequently stables have to be provided in expensive localities not always where quiet can be had. Besides this, rents are so high, and consideration for the comfort of this poor creature so low in the greed of money-making, that not infrequently a horse has to breathe in one-third the space necessary for his wellbeing. What must be the condition of many of these stables towards the morning, not to speak of the overcrowding, defective drain- age, insufficient and foul bedding, imperfect ventilation, and so forth ? No wonder there is such a consumption of horse- flesh, and the knacker prospers and can form himself Into a company. The condition of the night cab-horse is a pitiable one. Any one might see this if he watched the mews in the vicinity of some square, say in the W. C. district, or some other locality at one time gay and fashionable. The poor wretch made the most of, with his hoofs blackened and his coat as bright as the wealth of the poor brute and his driver's pocket could afford to pay for, looks fairly well to the ordinary eye ; but on closer inspection, in many cases, his condition is not all satisfactory. Every artifice is used to deceive the authori- ties, who, unfortunately for the cause I am advocating, are much too easy and lenient in these matters. Many a one rolling home at the small hours, or reaching a London terminus from the sister countries in the early morning, feels the advantage of a cab to reach his home. He seldom or never questions the condition of the animal attached to his conveyance so long as he gets to his abode ; yet in many cases the horse is only fit for night-work, and sometimes only for the knacker. I regret to say the majority of these animals have been well bred, and have known what it is to experience proper attention and kind treatment. Any one with some knowledge of the regimen observed in a racing-stable will know what a poor broken-down thoroughbred must suffer on night-work, dragging along a dilapidated four- wheeler ; yet every advantage is taken of their willingness for mercenary purposes, often driven until they drop dead. as the reader will have no doubt noticed. The cruel advan- tage taken of thoroughbreds, who will, under any conditions, go as long as their legs will carry them, is only akin to the rascally behaviour of the stableman at a country inn who robs your horse of his feed. Unfortunately this noble animal, so good and useful a servant, is the tool of jockeyism, and an instrument in the hands of filthy lucre. Either the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or some other institution having for its object improving the condition of the animal, should take early steps for bringing about a better state of matters. I am sure many would feel only too pleased to subscribe to a fund for the passing of legal measures for the better housing and general welfare of this animal. With regard to the S.P.C.A., I would suggest giving money premiums at the end of each year to their officers, In proportion to the number of convic- tions attended by imprisonment or heavy fines. It may happen the officer may not appear in court to sustain the charge, although the witness is present and the case one of gross cruelty. Some Inducement in this manner, by way of a prospective augmentation of Income, might lead to an increase of vigilance, with much advantage to the poor quad- ruped. I am sorry to say that I fear some of these officers are not quite so zealous as the subscribers would wish, judging from the flagrant cases one sees. Generous assistance oueht not to be withheld from a society of this kind, doing, as it is, all in Its power. The claims of such Institutions of a genuine description cannot be too strongly put forward In the Interests of this animal, sent for our use and not to be abused, as we see them daily, which is a shame to this enlightened country. lO I question very much whether the mode of housing horses in London has not had something to do with pink-eye. You cannot stable, say, ten or twelve horses in a cubic space only fit for five without injury to health. Overcrowding in the sleeping arrangements of the poorer classes of humanity, — the huddlinof together and want of fresh air, — induces fevers, a low state of the system, loss of energy, and general debility — all brought about by inhaling a poisonous atmosphere. If so with the human being, how much more so with the horse, who requires a much larger space in which to breathe than we do ? There is great need for reform in this direc- tion, and while considering the splendid prizes contended for on the turf, those in power and position might exert them- selves a little to render the end of the horse somewhat more creditable to them than at present, and not allow our country to become as barbarous in this respect as some foreign coun- tries one could name. The present method of slaughtering horses is not, to my mind, a humane one. Only the other day a brutal exhibition of this kind took place in the street. Surely a poor animal so unlucky as to break his leg or thigh ought not to be left* for hours in excruciating pain until the friendly knacker, licensed horse-slaughterer, or whatever he or his representa- tive may be called, makes his appearance. Even then often- times he cannot put an end to the poor brute's sufferings without an exhibition of ignorance in his calling, which of all occupations ought to be carried out in a humane and speedy manner. Might not the police constable be provided with some means of humanely putting the animal out of pain, without waiting hours for the slaughterman ? Some better arrangements ought to be made for accidents of this descrip- 1 1 tion, the results of which are so revolting. The knacker's trade in this extensive place is a lucrative one, and companies have been formed in this line of business, which I understand extends to many departments. London would appear to be its chief centre, as, besides the enormous consumption of horses which have lived here, consignments from the counties of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and elsewhere are sent by rail to London almost every night, and go as dead meat, I am told, provided one is slaughtered. This is all done during the night, when no society's officers are abroad. Why this should take place during the night I do not know, except perhaps to save expense and to obtain a better price for the animal alive than dead, or that a form of beastly cruelty may not be observed. The laws concerning the transit and protection from un- necessary suffering of animals used for food are lax enough, and want serious alterations, as may have been noticed by any one who has travelled on the cattle-boats between Ireland and this country, say, from Waterford to Milford Haven. These poor animals reach Waterford by train, are taken through the cattle-yards, and from there to the boat ; then they undergo a sea-passage, are disembarked, pass again through the yards, and are sent to their respective destinations by train or other- wise. To be considered fit for human food after passing through this is a question on which an eminent medical opinion would be of value. I should much like to go on with the grievances of our friend the horse, but this hardly comes within the province of this little work, which is only designed to stimulate the erection of good stables, well planned and arranged, with some little attempt at scientific principles ; but of this the 12 reader may perhaps be able to judge. The work simply pretends to give a few examples and general suggestions for the arrangements of these buildings, without attempting any practical or theoretical phraseology. I daresay some may consider there is little scope for ingenuity or taste in the plan- ning and arrangement of stables. Such has not been my experience, as good taste and ability can be brought to bear on this subject like all others when one applies himself to it, with the result that the latest improvements can be com- bined with taste, comfort, and economy. In expressing the pleasure the preparation of this little work has given me, and in fondly cherishing the hope it may help to improve the condition and welfare of one of the noblest animals of God's creation, I have to acknow- ledge with many thanks the kind assistance I have received from my friend and countryman, Matthew Dawson, Esq., and from James Innes Murray, Esq., and G. S. Lowe, Esq. JOHN BIRCH. 8 John Street, Adelphi, London, W.C. February 12, 1892. CONTENTS. INTRODUCTION, ..... STABLE OFFICES ERECTED AT LAXTON, NOTTS, STABLE OFFICES ERECTED AT UPTON, BERKS, STABLE OFFICES ERECTED NEAR CHOBHAM, SURREY DESIGN FOR STABLE OFFICES FOR SEVEN HORSES, . VIEW OF THE STABLES AT RUFFORD ABBEY, NOTTS, AS RESTORED, ..... VIEW OF THE STABLES AT CIRENCESTER HOUSE, GLOUCESTER SHIRE, . . DESIGN FOR STABLE OFFICES FOR EIGHTEEN HORSES, DESIGN FOR STABLE OFFICES FOR TWENTY-THREE HORSES, STABLES ERECTED AT PARKSTONE, DORSETSHIRE, DESIGN FOR STABLE OFFICES FOR TEN HORSES, TRAINING ESTABLISHMENT, NEWMARKET, STABLES ERECTED AT GRAFTON HALL, CHESHIRE, STABLES, PARK PLACE, SURREY, AS REMODELLED, STABLES ERECTED AT WANDLE HOUSE, SURREY, TRAINING ESTABLISHMENT, NEWMARKET, . DESIGN FOR STABLE OFFICES FOR SIXTEEN HORSES, DESIGN FOR STABLE OFFICES FOR FORTY-EIGHT HORSES PAGE PLATE 15 29 I 30 II 31 III 32 IV 34 VI 35 VII 36 VIII 37 IX 38 IXA 39 X 40 XI 41 XII 42 XIII 43 XIV 44 XV 45 XVI 1 4 DESIGN FOR STABLE OFFICES FOR THIRTY-SIX HORSES, THE STABLES ERECTED AT INGESTRE HALL, STAFFORDSHIRE bird's-eye YIE\V, . , . . . VIEW IN QUADRANGLE, . . . . VIEW IN QUADRANGLE, . . . ' . EXAMPLE OF A HUNTING-BOX VIEW FROM THE SOUTH-EAST, VIEW OF ENTRANCE FRONT, . . . . EXAMPLES OF HUNTING-KENNELS PLAN A, . bird's-eye VIEW, .... PLAN B, . . . . . bird's-eye VIEW, .... EXAMPLE OF LOOSE-BOXES FOR SUMMERING HORSES, EXAMPLE OF A HUNTING-STABLE PLAN, ..... bird's-eye view, .... EXAMPLE OF A RACING ESTABLISHMENT PLAN, ..... bird's-eye view, .... PAGE PLATE XVP^ 46 47 XVII 47 XVIII 47 XIX 48 50 XX XXI 51 XXII 51 XXIII 54 XXIV 54 XXV 57 XXVI 59 XXVII 59 XXVIII 61 XXIX 61 XXX EXAMPLES OF STABLES, ETC WHEN, some forty years ago, the author used occasionally to spend his school holidays in the small village of Gullane, in the county of East-Lothian, not far from Edinburgh, where a few train- ing establishments were then located, and in which he took a boyish interest, he little thought he would one day be called upon to design one of the largest and perhaps most complete set of stable offices that have been built during the present century, to say nothing of many other buildings he has designed and erected of a kindred character, or be connected in any way with horses or sport. At that time the I'Ansons had training-stables at this place before moving to York- shire, and trained for the late Mr James Merry of Belladrum, and others. The author can well remember the beautiful horse Chanti- cleer, and watching Macleod the animal-painter doing full justice to a portrait of the handsome grey. The arrangement of the boxes in racing-stables in those days was somewhat after the present fashion, each being separated, although communicating with each other ; and if the author remembers aright, there was a good arrangement for lads' rooms, mess-rooms, saddle- rooms, fodder- stores, &c. ; and the trainers' houses were neat and comfortable, with tasteful gardens and very simple pleasing exteriors, to the walls of which clung the rose-tree and honeysuckle. One or two of the most successful trainers of the present day at Newmarket trained horses in their early days at this place. At that time between this quiet little village and the coast of the Firth of Forth near North Berwick, there was a considerable range of downs i6 with fine pure bracing air, somewhat Hkc the air of Newmarket Heath, and fairly good exercising grounds ; but being so far removed from racing centres, few horses were trained here except for racing purposes in Scotland. On the links in those days the old Scottish game of golf, now so fashionable in the south, was a favourite pastime with the trainers, their patrons, and visitors. The author has often witnessed many a hard well -contested battle. He remembers William and Robert I'Anson, and other turf notables, enjoying this game, as healthful and invigorating as curling in winter, another favourite Scottish pastime. Being on very friendly terms with the late Mr Henry Savile, and a frequent visitor at Rufford Abbey while rebuilding the stables and superintending other works on this extensive property, the author can well remember the great interest this gentleman took in all matters relating to the horse, and with what pleasure he would accompany his friends over his well-appointed stud-farm, show them his dapper little Cremorne, winner of the Derby, Parmesan, and other sires, also his beautiful stud of brood-mares with their colts and fillies. A quiet stroll over these paddocks on a beautiful May morning was most enjoyable, and not to be forgotten by any one having a love for the horse. Not less pleasant was it to be staying at this comfortable house during the hunting season, with a meet of the hounds in front of the old Abbey ; and if a hunting-man, to enjoy a good run in the vicinity of the Dukeries, or be fortunate enough to obtain a few days' shooting in the well-stocked preserves : these pleasures, and the genial manner of the host, are, I feel sure, in the remembrance of many besides myself Mr Savile was a thorough sportsman in every sense, and a m.ost amiable and accomplished gentleman. He enjoyed a fair share of success on the turf; but during the latter part of his career he lacked the class of horses he used to have, when at Ascot in one year the greater part of the trophies fell to his share. Latterly his colours seldom came to the front in important races ; and he passed away much respected and deeply regretted by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. The author has added to this little work some designs he made for a small training establishment at Newmarket, at the request of the late Lord Falmouth and his favourite jockey. The best-arranged stables in Newmarket were inspected, and all the recent improvements were noted and embraced in these designs. The circumscribed nature 17 of the ground, and other surrounding circumstances, to some extent governed the arrangement, and prevented the buildings being so freely planned and arranged as they might have been. The plans were well considered, and no pains were spared to perfect and make them as complete as possible ; but some alterations and changes took place in the training arrangements shortly afterwards, and the building of this establishment fell through. Enough, perhaps, has been said about bygone days. I shall be very pleased if these little reminiscences will stir up pleasant reflec- tions in the memories of those who remember these times. The pleasures of our youth, when all appeared bright and glorious, have been the happiest times with most of us, and one may be pardoned for fondly dwelling on them and the good old days, which, I fear, are not destined to return to this country again. The author now respectfully desires to make a few remarks on building stable offices. Besides possessing a really good and well- arranged plan, the stables ought to have some pretension to archi- tectural taste, as they are frequently placed near the house ; and on a large property, where the owner is fond of horses, they form an important adjunct. Stables ought not to be placed too near the house, and yet not too far removed to be inconvenient. In adding new stables to old mansions, the position would be governed by circumstances ; but in an entirely new building the author suggests their position being in the vicinity of the servants' offices, unless, of course, the nature of the ground, and the desire to obtain certain views of the surrounding scenery, render this impossible. There are no hard-and-fast lines wdiere the stables should be placed. To be within easy reach of the mansion, not too obtrusively situated, and comfortably nestling in some convenient spot, to blend and group with the surrounding land- scape, would appear to be all that could be desired. It is most important that the position ought to secure as much of the sunlight as possible, and, in fact, be bright and cheerful for both man and beast. Sometimes stables may be so placed in connection with the mansion-house as to greatly enhance the picturesque appearance as seen from the garden front and terraces ; and when partially concealed by judicious planting the effect is good. They may be sometimes arranged to adjoin the kitchen-gardens, and so form proper fruit-walls on those sides favourable for the growth of fruit-trees and the position of vineries, and other buildings connected with the gardens. In this small work the author's object has been to show in a very simple form how it is possible to make such a building as the stable a well-planned, comfortable, and pleasing adjunct to the property, whether of large or small pretensions. The author gives examples of about twenty stables, ten of which have been executed in different parts of the country, and include the stables at Grafton Hall, Cheshire (Plate XL), which are found con- venient and suitable for a moderate establishment. The stables at Wandle House (Plate XHI.) are perhaps the most complete of their kind, and no expense has been spared by the owner to make them show-stables — a pleasure to himself and his visitors. There the long facade was somewhat difficult to treat ; but the result has been suc- cessful, and the building forms a pleasing termination to the vista, and serves to screen from view the adjoining property. The stables at Parkstone (Plate IX.) may be taken as another example of what can be done in making a structure of this kind pleasing and unobtrusive, and at the same time possessing some quaint originality of treatment. This building is purposely disposed of on the ground that the effect from the north or entrance front of the house should be quaint, and harmonises with the house, which has been designed in a similar style. The view of the stables at Park Place, near Windsor Park (Plate XII.), is an instance of how an old and incongruous building may, with a little trouble and care, be made to' harmonise with the mansion. The additions are not of importance ; but changing the appearance of the old part required some skill, with the result that the whole agrees and harmonises with the house, and answers its purpose in all respects. It is not often possible to change the general appearance of a group of buildings ; but this is a simple case in point, where the remodelling and alterations have been successfully attained at a very moderate expense. The stables at Upton and Chobham (Plates II. and III.) are also similar examples in this direction, all intended to show that these buildings, which frequently have to find accommodation for very valuable animals, can be planned on the most approved and economical principles, and externally made pleasing and charac- teristic of the purposes to which the building is devoted. 19 The lar^^c stables at Ingestre Hall, which were designed and built under the author's supervision for the Earl of Shrewsbury and Talbot (see Plates XVII., XVIII., and XIX.), show what can be done on a large scale. These stables provide accommodation for between fifty and sixty horses, about half in stalls and the other half in loose- boxes, and are considered to be one of the most complete stables of modern times. These were designed in the Jacobean style, to harmonise with the Hall, which the author restored after the great fire which took place there some seven or eight years ago. Of the unexecuted works or designs mentioned in this book, perhaps designs IV. and VII. may be worthy of consideration ; also designs IXa., XV., and XVIa., may be commended to the reader as well-digested plans possessing something more than the ordinary external appearance, together with a thoughtful and well-considered plan. Take for consideration the design, Plate VIL, for eighteen horses. Here the buildings form three sides of a square, the stable- yard being enclosed in front by a handsome balustraded wall with carved stone entrance-piers and ornamental iron gates. The washing- place forms the central feature, with a prominent gable — a clock and quaintly formed bell-turret over it marking the centre of the build- ing. The loose-box stables intended for hunters are arranged on the left of the washing-place, v.'ith the saddle-room and mess-room adjoining, also saddle and harness cleaning- rooms attached thereto. The carriage-horse and hack stable is on the right-hand side of the washing-place, with a sick-horse stable and harness-room adjoining. These departments are arranged in the most convenient order. The animals being first taken to the washing-place, where harness is removed, are cleaned, and afterwards taken to their respective stalls without again crossing the yard. A staircase is placed on each side of the yard, leading to groom's, coachman's, and helpers' rooms, which occupy part of the upper floor. The hay, straw, and corn lofts are over the stables, and a double coach-house on each side — one for the house, the other for visitors' vehicles, &c. — perfects this range of buildings, w^hich may be accepted as a well-considered plan. In the design IV., for seven horses, this idea is well conceived for a small establishment where there is no home-farm, and where the cow- houses, work-horse stable, piggery, poultry-house, &c., require to be combined with the stables. These conveniences, forming as it were 20 a farmyard on a very small scale, are placed in the rear, having a separate approach, — the dung- court being accessible to both sets of stables, thus enabling the front yard of the stables to be always kept free from litter and nuisance of any kind. Here in this case the hay, straw, and corn are taken to the lofts over stables from the rear with- out having to come into the stable -yard. By this arrangement the stables are always kept clean and fit for the reception of visitors. The author would also strongly commend to the reader's attention design Plate VIIL, which has been well planned, and might be reduced and adapted to the requirements of a moderate establishment at very much less cost. This plan can be perfected and made to possess all the leading features of the best-digested examples in this work. Plate XV. is another design with a convenient plan. The design would suit any Elizabethan or Tudor house. The centre feature forms a gable with saddle- and harness-room and helpers' sleeping- rooms over. From either side of this central feature the stables and loose-boxes radiate. The block forms three sides of a quadrangle joined at the angles by turret-staircases leading to coachman's and groom's rooms. Hay, straw, and corn lofts are placed over the stables. The general effect is after the fashion of Plate VH. The stables for ten horses (Plate IXa.) is somewhat peculiar on plan, as will be seen from the bird's-eye view. The arrangements are somewhat similar to Plate XL, and is on a larger scale, and would make a suitable and convenient set of stables for a country mansion in the Old English or Tudor style of architecture, and would look very effective and picturesque in a shrubbery or in some thickly wooded part near the kitchen offices. In point of economy perhaps Plate XVIa. would be the least ex- pensive design in this work, having regard to the number of horses provided for. This idea, with its simplicity of form and other advan- tages, will no doubt commend itself to the notice of my readers. The plan is unique, and shows an arrangement of stables not often met with. In the plan of hunting-stable (Plate XXVII.) it will be observed the range of loose-boxes for hunters resting is placed towards the south, with doors from each loose-box, with this advantage that these boxes would be useful for summering the hunters as well as resting them during the hunting season. In all other respects this plan has been devised to meet the requirements of a moderate-sized hunting-box. 21 The several amounts named as the costs of the executed works can he relied on as correct. The estimates attached to the descriptions of the dcsi^^ns — not cxecii icd \\'or\ I [^ u CD h < J 00 o:: o -J O 45 PLATE XVI. Design for Stable Offices for Forty-eight Horses. THIS design is on a larger scale than any of the preceding, and more suitable to a princely establishment. The plan is con- ceived much upon the same principles as the others, the requirements being merely multiplied. The quadrangular form gives an oppor- tunity for providing a glass-covered exercising space in the centre, which must be very essential where a numerous stud is kept. The courtyard is entered by an archway of noble dimensions in the centre of the fagade, surmounted by a pediment with coat of arms carved on the tympanum, and a prominent clock and bell turret over, of oak and lead, high enough to be seen from all quarters. The probable cost of executing this design would be about from ;^ 1 8,000 to ^20,000. 46 PLATE XVIa. Design for Stable Offices for Thirty-six Horses. IN conceiving this design and adopting the form indicated by the drawing, the main object of the author is to arrive at a plan which will give the greatest accommodation consistent with economy of space ; and for a large establishment this form would doubtless work very well. On either side of the entrance, which is indicated by the archway and half-timber elevation over it, are to be found the coach- men's and grooms' residences, mess-room, kitchen, saddle and harness rooms, and immediately opposite this, the coach-house, with lofts over. On either side, in the semicircular parts, are stalls and boxes, with a place for cleaning in the centre of each. A special feature in this design is the continuous covered-way all round the circle, forming an exercising ground for the animals as well as protection from weather. The buildings are of red bricks and stone dressings, and red tiles for the roof; and this is broken up and varied by introducing some effective bits of half-timber work of quaint forms, being an inexpen- sive method of gaining variety, lightness, and colour. The accom- modation here is for thirty-six horses. The cost of this design would be about ^6500. This estimate may seem inconsistent compared with some other examples in this book, which it will be observed are of a more elaborate character. This design has been prepared almost wholly with regard to economy of space and means, with little or no regard to architectural display. ¥1 ^ < 0- s CO 'Xi -J Q 2 u < U Q a: o -I < 47 PLATES XVII., XVIII., & XIX. The Nciv Stables, Tngestre, Staffordshire. THE stables at Ingestre Hall, Staffordshire, were built a few years ago, from designs by the author, forming one of the largest establishments in the country. The quadrangle is about i6o feet by 140 feet, and is approached through the archway in the centre, over which rises a tower. On either side of the archway are residences for coachmen and grooms, sick-boxes, and harness-rooms; and over the latter are the granaries with fire-proof floors. The wings to the right and left are the stables for stalls and loose-boxes, each wing having a cleaning-place in the centre. These stables are built open half-way up the roof, and ceiled with a panelled and plastered ceiling. The ventilation and drainage was specially considered, and the most perfect modern methods adopted, and all the fittings were of the most durable and best kind. The coach-house occupies the central position of quadrangle, and is of spacious dimensions, having a portico in front for washing purposes, built of stone, with an elaborate oak clock- turret on roof. Over the coach-house are found the hay and straw lofts, helpers' rooms, &c. The mess-room, kitchen, forge, &c., are built to the rear of this. In designing this building no trouble was spared in rendering it complete in all its arrangements and details, water and electric light being taken into the stables and otherwise where necessary. The new building is made to harmonise in style and feeling with the old Hall — which was restored by the author at the same time — is built of brick and stone, the entrance-tower and archway being entirely of the latter material. Plate XVII. shows a bird's-eye view looking into quad- rangle, with the facade towards the road. Plate XVIII. is the view in quadrangle facing the coach-house ; and Plate XIX. is a similar one looking at the entrance to quadrangle. The total cost of these stables was about £'18,000, and the ac- commodation is for over fifty horses. EXAMPLE OF A HUNTING-BOX. PLATE XX. Viezv from the South-east. HAVING endeavoured to show several grades of stable offices suited to the requirements of various descriptions of country houses, from the hunting-box or parsonage to the mansion, it may be appropriate to add to this little work a well-digested and attractive idea for a small residence, where a gentleman may retire for the hunting season and entertain a few friends comfortably. The view shown by Plate XX. is taken from the south-east or garden front, the house being intended to be entered from the north, and placed on the ground as near as possible due north and south, in order to secure as much sun to the reception-rooms and principal bedrooms as practicable. The author's idea of such a place is that it should be a gentleman's house in miniature^ well and comfortably planned, possessing on a small scale all the arrangements and conveniences of a well-appointed establishment, while requiring only the minimum number of domestics to keep it in proper working order. This design is based on a plan the author has used successfully in several instances, with certain modifications to suit the circum- stances, and lately in Dorset, where it has given much satisfaction as a comfortable and attractive house. The plan might be still further improved on, for there is no standard of perfection : one can only judge from experience whether a house is really comfortable and well planned. The accommodation on the ground-plan would be a porch, an entrance-hall, to be used as a sitting-room, lavatory, gentlemen's o r 6 Q 49 w.-c, and cloak-room, morning- room, drawing-room, dining-room, servants' hall, pantry, backstairs, kitchen, scullery, with the usual offices and some cellarage in basement. The chamber- floor would contain about seven or eight bedrooms and dressing-rooms, bath-room, water-closet, and housemaid's closet, and three or four servants' bedrooms. The author considers a house of this description, including stabling for four or five horses, might be built for ;;^3300 or thereabouts. There would appear to be a want of houses of this kind in good hunt- ing localities. Noblemen and large landed proprietors, whether or not Masters of Hounds, would find this a fair investment, as such a house would command a good tenant on lease at a remunerative rent. Spare cash mieht be invested to much less advantacre. 50 PLATE XXI. Vic'zu of Entrance Front. THIS view shows the north or entrance front of the hunting-box, of which the last plate, No. XX., represents the south or garden front. The author has endeavoured to break up the facade as much as possible without detriment to the comfort of the interior, and has introduced a few quaint old-fashioned points peculiar to this style of architecture. The entrance-porch, with its half-timbered gable, the turret staircase at the side, and the bold old-fashioned chimney, form the main features of this fagade, and mark the entrance to the house. The servants' offices are on the left-hand side towards the east, with the stables beyond. The north or entrance front would have a fore-court, with the gardens and pleasure-grounds on the south and west. It will be observed, the disposition of this plan affords a pleasing and picturesque sky-line from almost every point of sight. < o EXAMPLES OF HUNTING^KENNELS. PLATES XXII. & XXIII. Designs for Kennels, with Huntsman's Residence, &c. THE favour with which the old Enghsh sport of fox-hunting is regarded in this country will be in itself a justification for the insertion of this design for a kennel, as much as the close connection there is between it and the subject of stables. Where a lodging for hounds has to be provided, it is as wise and economical in the long-run to have it well done at first, both with regard to the expenditure in- curred in maintaining a building of any kind afterwards, and also as to the health and preservation of the animals, which must always necessarily be to some extent affected for good or for bad by the lodging into which they are introduced or in which they have been brought up. For instance, in the choice of a site one cannot be too fastidious, for in the proper selection of this depends to a great extent the comfort of the hounds, and their fit condition for the chase when required. At one time to such an extent had kennel-lameness grown amongst the various packs through out the country, that sporting gen- tlemen were at their wits' end to find out the reason why such an unfor- tunate disease was so rife. It has, however, now been fully explained, that anything in the shape of damp under or even surrounding a kennel, has a great deal to do with the outbreak of lameness. Therefore it is necessary that great care should be taken in the selection of a site, where the hounds have to spend a considerable part of their existence. Having decided upon a place where the soil is of a sufficiently dry and 52 clayey nature, and if possible on the crest of some rising ground, it is necessary that the whole area of the building should be covered with at least six inches of Portland cement concrete on a bed of dry brick-rubbish, which, though not under every circumstance quite im- pervious to damp, would be sufficiently so where the site is carefully selected. This I consider one of the most essential points to be aimed at in the construction of kennels. Allied to this is, of course, the proper drainage of the site and building. If the kennel is placed on a rising ground, the wet will to a large extent percolate away from it ; but in addition to this natural advantage, it will be found of the utmost benefit to lay an ordinary field -drain, with open joints and overflows leading away from the kennel, to assist the natural process, and more speedily clear the precincts of the surface-water. By these means an area of a perfectly dry nature will be acquired, and a per- fectly safe place to raise your building for the lodging of the hounds and other accessories. The arrangement of the several parts of the building now come under our notice, and although I have found many examples through- out the country that have been very well arranged, yet I do not think it will be presumptuous to add the two examples which I have endeavoured to convey to the mind of the reader in Plates XXII., XXIIL, and XXIV., XXV. Plate XXII. shows a plan to the accom- panying view, XXI 1 1., of a small kennel to accommodate, say, a three days' pack. The first requirement to be considered is the aspect to which the kennels will be exposed, and I have laid them down facing the south-east. This gives the sun to the dogs in the early morning and throughout the best part of the day, up to a time when it may get too strong and warm for keeping them in good condition, — I fancy too much sun in summer is as bad as too little. One end of this wing is reserved for the dogs, while the other is for bitches, and the chamber between the two lodges the young hounds. There would thus be little quarrelling among the dogs, being placed at a sufficient distance from the others. To each chamber is put a court with enclosing walls of height enough to prevent the dogs annoying each other, surmounted with an iron railing about eight feet high. On the south-west front a drawing-court might or might not be put, according to the judgment of the owner, who might wish to occasionally show the pack. In any case, it would be useful for drawing before feeding. In the wing to the north-west has been contrived the feeding-chamber with its usual 53 accessories — a boiling-house and flesh and meal store. By this ar- rangement the hounds can be taken in from the drawing-court and fed, then turned into the after-feeding court, from whence they would be led to their separate lodgings. The boiling-house adjoins the feeding-chamber, but would be effectually cut off from it and the meal-store, and properly ventilated by flues through the roof In the centre wing, towards the south-west, is a room for the feeder, a room for drying purposes, and a hospital. This completes the accommoda- tion of a small kennel ; and if it is found desirable to place the hunts- man and whipper-in near to them, they might be placed as indicated on the plan. Provision should be made in the courts for troughs, so arranged that the animals will not be able to foul the drinking-water. The floor of the kennels is best of Portland cement concrete, laid with proper falls and channels to the drains, taken outside and thor- oughly disconnected and trapped. Arrangements could be contrived for utilising the heat of the boiling-house, and conveying it across to the kennel in cold weather by means of a conduit running under the court, and a hot-water or hot-air coil in each chamber ; but this would not be often necessary, as the dogs would keep each other warm enough if the rooms are not made too large. In the ceiling of each lodging there would be an opening about eighteen inches square, with a hinged flap, and cords to open and shut at pleasure. The vitiated air would pass through this opening into the roof, and be sucked away by the ventilator on the ridge. Although it is not desirable that a great deal of expense be put on the exterior of the kennels, yet every gentleman will see the desirability of making it in harmony with the other buildings on his estate, and the eye will not be offended by the judicious introduction of a few ornamental features ; but this ought to be kept in subjection to the more needful things which conduce to the comfort and health of the occupants, which, after having been attained, can be added to and en- hanced according to the taste and discretion of the person interested. 54 PLATES XXIV. & XXV. Design for Kennels, e-r. WE now come to the consideration of kennels on a more extended scale than that just brought under our notice in the last Plate. Without presuming to any practical knowledge as to the proper man- agement of hounds, it lies quite within my province to make suggestions and remarks as to the housing of these animals, and the best method of arranging their quarters in regard to their health and management. As I have already said, the principal and most important points which should guide one in the erection of kennels is, first, the selection of a proper site on a soil that is naturally dry and unabsorbent, free and open to the air. Having gained that point, it is then necessary that the aspect be studied, and all other matters of arrangement and detail should follow and fall in with these in the manner found to be most convenient. Plan B shows a method of arrangement which would work well where a large establishment was kept up. In this plan there is a kennel for a hunting-pack and another for a resting- pack. The kennel for the hunting-pack faces the south-east, and derives all the benefit to be had from the sun from early morn till mid-day. There is a lodging for dogs and young hounds, and each is provided with a court enclosed with walls and iron railing. In the opposite wing are the quarters for the resting-pack, and at the extreme end of the wing, as far as possible from the neighbourhood of the dogs, is accommodation for bitches. Each of these also has a court in front, and the aspect is towards the north-west. The floors of these chambers, as well as the rest of the buildings, would be paved with Portland cement concrete, and the cement rendering carried up for about three feet above the floor as a precaution against any chances of damp being sucked through the walls. The ventilation of the lodgings would be z: i y Sd EXAMPLE OF A HUNTING -STABLE. PLATES XXVII. & XXVIII. A HUNTING -STABLE differs in many respects from the ordinary stables attached to a country house, and a building for this purpose must be specially planned in order to meet the necessary requirements. In placing before the reader this example for the accommodation of a small hunting-stud, my object is not so much to show the features of a permanent building, but rather to furnish a design of stabling, &c., for a moderate number of horses such as might be expected to accompany the example of the hunting-box illustrated on Plates XX. and XXL, laid down on the lines of the strictest economy, and made a separate building altogether from the stable which would necessarily be attached to the house. The accom- modation provided is for eight hunting and five resting horses. There is also a stable for two hacks, making a total of fifteen horses. The stall-stables, A, are placed on the left hand as you enter the courtyard, and the boxes, H, on the right, facing and opening out towards the south, so as to get as much sun as possible. There is a coach-house, L, entered from the outside of the building, so that no vehicles enter the courtyard, which is left undisturbed to the men and horses. In the centre, between the stall-stables, is a cleaning-place for the horses, from which each stall-stable is entered. At one end, adjoining and communicating with the stable, is the room, c, for cleaning saddles, &c. ; and the next room, B, is for hanging same and a mess-room. There is also a brushing and drying room with fireplace and stove, 6o sick-box, root and boiling house and corn-store ; and sleeping accom- modation is found for the men-servants over the mess-room, D. In the roof over the stables and boxes are spaces for hay and straw respectively. The construction of the front wall of building would be of half- timber framing, filled in with brickwork. All the remaining walls would be of timber and weather - boarding, on brick and concrete foundations. The roofs tiled or slated on boarding, and the boxes lined out with wood, ventilated and drained- similar to what has already been described for the boxes of Plate XXVI. The cost of this would probably be ;/^iooo. Design for a Training '^LSTABLISHMEMT Sh Plate rs?50 A STABLE YARD B CffTRAHCE C EXERCIMna YARD D ENTRANCE TO DO. F STALL STABLE G SADDLE RDOMa H SfTTTNC R-r* X DORMTTWUES HOUSE J BUSINESS EMTRANCE K TRAoesMErtt' crrrnANcc M KITCHCnOARDEN O RAODOCK YARD q MEAD LADS COTTAGE iotoL.ti)ogK.pWfcfViowdbjJ»meRAfc;rmrui.6,OurenSquare,WC ,^-LUif-grapbMifViDied by -'«=>*' ■'^'"'"'^■^■■^J''"'" ^f-" EXAMPLE OF A TRAINING ESTABLISHMENT TO ACCOMMODATE FIFTY HORSES. PLATES XXIX. & XXX. SOME years ago, at the request of a much -respected and dis- tinguished member of the Jockey Club, I had occasion to inspect in a professional capacity the principal racing establishments at Newmarket. Some time was spent looking over five or six stables, and the buildings that pleased me most were those built for the late Mr Joseph Dawson, and designed, I believe, by the late racing judge, Mr J. F. Clark. At that time these stables were considered the best. Built in the Italian style of architecture, with, if I remember rightly, a very comfortable trainer's house, the long fagade of the stables was broken up by a tower. The planning of the boxes, the arrangements for fodder and other details of comfort and convenience for carrying on the business of so large an establishment, were points in the build- ings which the late Mr Dawson took especial pleasure in explaining to his friends ; and I still possess a lively recollection of the hospitality and kindness I met with. The example which the readers are invited to study has been prepared with great care, and contains such arrange- ments and conveniences conceived to be necessary for an establishment of this kind. The plan has been carefully considered by a gentleman i 62 eminently qualified to form an opinion, who considers it admirable, and on which he could not suggest any alteration. With these few preliminary remarks I now proceed to explain the plan, and point out what may be considered its merits. In describing the arrangement of this example, I have endeavoured to elucidate the different positions of the several parts, by presenting a bird's-eye view with letters and an index, so that the arrangement may be more readily apprehended than would probably be the case with the geometrical drawing. The primary requirements in planning an establishment like this are such as may secure the greatest comfort to the horses, combined with cleanliness, health, and quietness ; and these are the considerations which have guided me in the conception and working out of this idea. The stable-yard is entered from the public road by a gate in the centre. This yard is of liberal dimensions, as will be seen, and is sur- rounded on three sides chiefly by loose-boxes, with a stall-stable in the centre. Each stable or chamber contains some six and some four loose- boxes, the divisions of which are about 7 ft. high, finished with a ven- tilating rail above this height. Above this the chamber or stable is open to the ceiling from end to end. Each division also has a sliding door in it, so that the tour of the stables may be made, if necessary, under cover. These boxes have been so placed as to secure the maxi- mum amount of sunshine, so far as a symmetrical arrangement of the plan would afford. The ventilation of these boxes and stalls would be similar to what has already been described in the preceding ex- amples. At the two most central points of the building, marked G in the bird's-eye view, the saddle-rooms have been placed, access to which can be had from any of the boxes without having to go outside. These rooms are made large, as they also serve for storing dry horse- clothing. Adjoining each saddle-room, and communicating with it, is the necessary adjunct of cleaning-chamber for saddles, &c., with sinks and water, and other necessaries. Within easy distance of each stable several rooms have been distributed for hay, straw, and corn ; and I have thought this preferable to making one large chamber for the storage of same, as in the former case small quantities for each section are so frequently replenished that they do not suffer deterioration in rotting or being fouled. In addition to this, of course, sufficient 63 storage might be provided for in the adjoining paddocks to last for any length of time. The sitting-room and dormitories for lads arc placed at the ends of each side-wing. The dormitories over the lads' sitting-room and dining-room would be each divided into ten cubicals to each chamber, and it would be easy to find additional room if required. In the centre of the yard a water-tower would be necessary to dis- tribute water throughout, and on either side of this structure the dung- courts have been provided for. The rain-water that would fall upon the roofs would be considerable, and this I would collect and conserve in built rain-water tanks, and pump the same when necessary into the tanks in tower, where separate tanks would be provided, one for hard and one for soft water — the latter to be used for drinking purposes. In the centre of the right wing is an arched passage which leads to the working-court. The buildings in this portion of the design are so placed that all noise and bustle inseparable from a large establishment may be excluded from the principal court where the racing-horses are housed, and so ensure them the quiet they need. Here are stables for six hacks and two cart-horses, coach-house, harness-room, cart-shed, forge, boiling and root houses, coal-store, and conveniences for men. There is also a cart entrance from the side road to this court. The advantage of placing the supernumerary portion of the estab- lishment outside the stable-yard in a quadrangle of its own must strike one as evident enough, besides being a great help to order and clean- liness. All the work outside the actual attendance and grooming can be carried on here away from view ; and visitors would not be offended by the hundred-and-one sounds which usually assail one on entering, when all these things are hopelessly mixed up, without any regard to a proper arrangement of plan. Attached to the dining-room, and forming the south wing of this court, is the kitchen department for the lads, comprising kitchen, scullery, pantry, and larder, and if necessary, accommodation for two female servants over them. There is also a drying-room for horse- clothes, &c. ; and in the corner next this a cottage residence, which the head lad, as a married man — under the trainer — would occupy. In the rear of the stable-yard, and approached by a passage in the centre of the building, is a straw- bed exercising-ground of ample dimensions, surrounded by a covered riding-way, to be used in wet weather. From this are two exits to the paddocks, marked O in view. 64 From the wing on the left of the stable-yard is a covered passage leading to the trainer's house, so that patrons can inspect the stables in any weather. To this house I have provided an entrance for busi- ness purposes, marked J, and a separate and private entrance for the inhabitants and others. The trainer will thus be able to enjoy the privacy of his own dwelling and grounds apart from the interruptions of business. The accommodation provided in the residence is as in- dicated on the plan by the numeral letters, with a comfortable and well-planned set of bed-chambers on the one-pair floor. It is to be noted with what facility the trainer may be able to inspect and show his stud. As the horses are usually tied up, it is possible to pass from the business-room in the trainer's house along the covered way, and from loose-box to loose-box, &c., through the sliding doors, until he has made a complete inspection, and then return to his business-room, without being unnecessarily exposed to the elements. The style of treatment adopted for the exterior is admirably suited to buildings of this kind, where economy has to be much considered without sacrificing them altogether to ugliness. The walls might be built of red brick or stone, and the roofs boarded and slated. All the roofs would be low-pitched and in harmony with the style, and for economical reasons. In some of the loose-boxes there ought to be provision for benches on which to sleep, for lads who are put in charge of certain horses — and I think one such arrangement should be put in each stable ; but best of all is a portable bench, which can be placed in any box at pleasure at any time.