Historic site in Wrexham County Borough, Wales
The Gelli is a small country house situated between Tallarn Green and Tybroughton in Wrexham County Borough, Wales. It is a Grade II* listed building[1] standing in a prominent position on the edge of a hill.[2]
History
The Gelli was designed by the Chester architect John Douglas and built in 1877 for the Honourables Georgina and Henrietta Kenyon,[3] who were the daughters of the 3rd Baron Kenyon of Gredlington.[1]
Architecture
The house is built in three ranges (wings), each at right angles to each, other forming a zigzag or "domino" shape.[2] It is constructed mainly in brick, with red sandstone and terracotta dressings, and with some timber framing in the upper storey. The roofs are tiled and the chimney stacks are brick.[1]
The west-facing range entrance range has 2½ storeys with a tower at its south end. The tower has a pyramidal roof with a weather vane incorporating the letter "K". The upper storey is jettied and timber-framed and its tie beam includes a painted panel inscribed "G and H K 1877". The northeast range projects behind this and also has a turret with louvred openings for a pigeon loft. The third range projects forward at the south end; it is in one storey, and comprises the coach house, stables and accommodation for the groom.[1]
Internally the fittings and details are described as being "typically Douglas", although they are in pine rather than in his usual oak.[2] The principal feature is the stair hall and staircase. The latter has balusters and newels and it leads by a quarter-turn to an arcaded landing.[1]
Critique
In its listing, it is described as "a very well preserved small country house in the Domestic Revival style characteristic of John Douglas, combining originality of planning and a rich vocabulary of detail in a striking picturesque composition.[1]
