Charleston House

Charleston House

By Alexey Mazon and Gladys Zamora

“Beauty, the world seemed to say. And as if to prove it (scientifically) wherever he looked at the houses, at the railings, at the antelopes stretching over the palings, beauty sprang instantly...all of this, calm and reasonable as it was, made out of ordinary things as it was, was the truth now; beauty, that was the truth now. Beauty was everywhere.”

- Virginia Woolf, Mrs. Dalloway

Charleston House, located in East Sussex, England, is a historical landmark known for its association with the Bloomsbury Group. Upon entering the house, we were immediately struck by the unique character and charm of the interior. The space was alive with color, texture, and an eclectic mix of art and furniture. Murals, paintings, and photographs adorned the walls, each telling a story of the creative minds that once lived and worked there. The space was full of energy, and it was easy to imagine the spirits of the Bloomsbury Group still lingering in the air.

As we explored the different rooms, it felt as though we had stepped back in time.  The fireplace in the living room of Charleston House is a beautiful and unique feature that showcases the artistic talent of Vanessa Bell. The design is intricate and delicate, with each brick painted in a different shade of blue, green, or yellow to create a colorful and vibrant effect. I was also completely captivated by its beautiful and tranquil garden. It was, without a doubt, one of our favorite part of the visit. The weather during the winter gave a different aesthetic than what we have seen in the photos of the garden. Despite this, the garden was stunning and thoroughly enjoyed walking through the path. Additionally, there was a pond that was viewable from Grant’s room; it was peaceful. The quote above represents our overwhelmed emotions towards Charleston House. 

In conclusion, visiting Charleston House was an enriching experience that provided insight into the lives and works of the Bloomsbury Group. Their unconventional approach to life and intellectual pursuits serves as a reminder that it is through open-mindedness and creativity that we can challenge the status quo and inspire others.