Mansion of Dramatics, England

Mansion of Dramatics is a grand manor house, tucked away in a sleepy little village in England. It was was built in the 19th century by two prominent tea and opium traders. The architectural style is Palladian or Italinanate; a homage to ancient Greek and Roman temples, also taking inspiration from Vanetian architects of the Italian Renaissance era. This style was a popular design for the mansions and manors of wealthy Victorians. The house is currently valued at £1.5m.

The house has had a turbulent history in the late 20th and early 21st century, and has changed hands several times. It has been a care home and later a failed performing arts academy. Most recently it was used as a cannabis farm by tenants which are currently still in prison.

The entrance hall is cubic in shape, featuring a first floor gallery which overlooks the ground floor over black wrought-iron railings. This room is bright and well lit from a central etched glass dome skylight. Decorative pillars and panels are yellow and red marble-effect, likely hand painted vaneers rather than real marble. There was likely Victorian-style underfloor heating, as the vents can be see along the edges of the hall floor.

There are two moderately-sized ballrooms, with large gold and crystal chandeliers suspended from ornate matching ceiling roses. The walls and ceilings are decorated with lavish embossed plaster work, also painted gold. The fireplaces are flawless marble, the walls encrusted with pearls and the original door handles finest ivory (sold at auction years ago).

A music room features a piano and guitar, as well as several other musical instruments. Busts, sculptures and masks can be found in the old dining room including a model of the house. These are remnants from the days of the performing arts school.