Abstract

Thornbank is one of a group of four terrace houses built in Douglas, Isle of Man in 1897 to a design by the renowned Arts & Crafts architect MacKay Hugh Baillie Scott. This report was commissioned by Manx National Heritage to investigate and research the original appearance of the house, both externally and internally. The results of this research are based on: the material evidence uncovered on site and in the Manx National Heritage Library & Archive, census returns and other pertinent material. A number of physical paint samples were removed for cross sectional analysis to determine the paint colours used and further investigations of the plastered walls to reveal stencil work and potentially traces of wallpapers. Although no evidence for historic wallpapers were found, traces of an early stencil design was uncovered running the perimeter of the entrance hall at frieze level. A number of early linoleum floor coverings have survived in the house, largely protected by later carpets. Although slightly later (1920's/30's) these were recorded and their significance and conservation needs addressed.