Holland House, Worcestershire
Updated: Jun 4
Transforming a Historic Garden into a Strategic Asset
Holland House is a listed Edwardian property near Pershore, Worcestershire, set within three acres of historic gardens containing features attributed to Sir Edwin Lutyens.
Operated as a retreat and conference venue, the trustees recognised an opportunity to strengthen both the visitor experience and the long-term sustainability of the organisation by unlocking the potential of the gardens.
The Challenge
While the gardens were a significant historic asset, their contribution to the wider mission and business objectives of Holland House had never been fully realised. The trustees needed a clearer understanding of the garden's heritage significance, its opportunities and constraints, and how it could support future growth while remaining true to the ethos of the organisation.
Our Role
Muse undertook a detailed assessment of the site, drawing on historic research, landscape analysis and an understanding of visitor use. This work established the significance of the gardens, identified key historic features and revealed opportunities for restoration, enhancement and improved visitor engagement.
Working closely with the trustees, we developed a series of proposals that balanced conservation with practical business objectives, ensuring that future investment would strengthen both the character of the gardens and the role they could play within the wider organisation.
The Outcome
The project demonstrated how the gardens could become a central part of the future vision for Holland House rather than simply a setting for the property.
Recommendations included the restoration of historic Lutyens features, redesign of the rose garden, improved access and circulation, new herbaceous planting and revised management practices.
Together, these proposals created a clear strategy for transforming the gardens into a more engaging, sustainable and commercially valuable asset.
Patrick Swan subsequently led the design and implementation of new garden features and worked with the trustees to position the gardens as a key part of the Holland House story and visitor experience.
Services Provided
Historic Garden Assessment
Landscape Analysis
Heritage Research
Conservation Planning
Garden Restoration Strategy
Visitor Experience Planning
Landscape Design
Stakeholder Engagement
Comments