Stratford Hall- Stratford, VA

Admittedly, Georgian mansions can be a bit too austere for me- a bit too much all brick business. However, that is not that case at Stratford Hall, which is both symmetrical and stylish, although a bit problematic with scale.

Constructed in 1738 by Colonel Thomas Lee, acting Governor of Virginia at the time, the brick beauty on the Potomac River was named after the Lee’s ancestral home in East London. Designed by an unknown architect, the house draws from several classic influences, such as Palladio and Gibbs, and features a large central building with two three bay hip roofed end blocks, dominated by two large chimney blocks.

Inside, the main floor of the H plan mansion is dominated by a central Great Hall, with soaring ceilings and elaborate paneling. On each side of the space, an elegant hallway with fluid niches increases visual interest. Outside of these rooms, and an embellished dining room, the large house is quite plain and utilitarian, and feels much smaller than it actually is.

The grounds at Stratford are quiet impressive however, and include formal gardens, outbuildings, barns and striking views of the Potomac. An inn is also located onsite, with a dining room and rustic cabins, for those who want to make a weekend of exploring the estate.