Broomfield House

Broomfield House is a building of historical interest located in Palmers Green, North London. Built during the 16th Century, it was damaged by fires in 1984 and 1994, and is currently awaiting restoration as part of the English Heritage Restoration Programme.

History

Broomfield house was sold to London Merchant, Joseph Jackson, in 1624 after several previous occupants. During the 150 years that the Jackson family were in possession of the house, the house was internally remodelled to a considerable extent. The grand staircase was built and murals were painted by Gerard Lanscroon, and the surrounding Broomfield Park was also created. During the late 1700s to early 1800s the once U-shaped building was altered into a rectangular shape, enclosing the once east-facing courtyard. After a period where the house was let to tenants, the house and 54 acres of land was sold for development to Southgate Urban District Council, who opened the park to the public in 1903.

Between 1907 and 1910 the building housed Southgate County School, with Southgate's first maternity centre opening there in 1917. The building was classified as Grade II* in 1950 because of its history and architectural uniqueness.

Fires

In 1984 a fire broke out in building which damaged the roof and the top floor. The cause was deemed to be electrical. A temporary roof was erected to ensure further damage was kept to a minimum, though a permanent roof was not rebuilt as the house was no longer in use. A second fire in 1994 made the building in its current state unusable and unsafe. Though the council wanted to demolish the building, heritage groups persuaded the Council to obtain a report looking into the possibility of restoration. This concluded that restoration should be undertaken, and the building was made safe.

Currently the building remains enclosed by scaffolding until details on the full restoration and its future use by the community can be agreed upon.

"Restoration"

Broomfield House was featured on the BBC television series Restoration as a nominee for the south-east segment of the show, alongside London Wilton's Music Hall in London and Darnley Mausoleum in Kent. Broomfield House lost out to London Wilton's Music Hall, with the series' overall winner announced as Victoria Baths in Manchester.

External links

* [http://www.broomfieldhouse.org.uk Broomfield House official website]
* [http://www.bbc.co.uk/london/yourlondon/restoration/broomfield_house.shtml Broomfield House restoration]
* [http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/server/show/ConWebDoc.6769 At-Risk Register]