RICCARTON HOUSE SERIES

Todays blip is a continuation of my Riccarton House series.(The Christchurch Pioneering Deans family Home.)
In 1899 the family commissioned the third stage of the house which included the construction of this grand entry hall. It was to be a major addition,part of the 1856 house was removed and eleborate double verandahs and high stud height gave the house its imposing appearance.
Extensive oak panelling use of native timbers and French revival decotative features.
To build this 1900 extention, oak trees planted 50 years before were cut down and submerged in the Avon stream on the property to allow the timber to season. The seasoned timber is impressive in the this entry hall which took two men 12 months to construct.