Decorative features
Many pre-1918 homes in Chalkwell display various decorative features that add richly to their character.
Balconies, a typical feature of seaside domestic architecture, are widely seen – making the most of the area’s plentiful sea views. As was generally the case in the Edwardian era, these tended by be made of wood. Decorative woodwork in other forms is also seen in Edwardian porches.
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Turrets and cupolas are also seen throughout Chalkwell, designed to add interest, particularly, but not exclusively, on corner sites. Three main types are all exemplified here. Below, from left to right, are illustrated local examples of these: cupola, pepper-pot and the evocatively named witches’ hat.
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Front doors are also important in contributing to the character of a home, and Chalkwell’s Edwardian buildings often feature wide double-doors, set into porches, such as seen below in Crowstone Road.
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Windows were also used as a decorative feature in the Edwardian period. Sliding sashes were commonly used, often featuring a mix of large and small panes to add interest, and sometimes also incorporating stained glass. Number 34 Leigh Road (featured below) is a good example, which combines a variety of decorative features to produce a harmonious result.
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A wall generally enclosed the front garden, often constructed of clinker brick identified by their burnt and broken bricks (see Useful information section for further details). While many of these have now disappeared, others remain, and may be seen in many roads – most notably on three of the four corners of Chalkwell avenue at its junction with Kings Road.
Below, left: ?; centre: ?; right: