Totnes Devon hotels:

High Cross House was commissioned in c1932 by Leonard and Dorothy Elmhirst from the Swiss-American architect, William Lescaze. This International Modernist style house has been refurbished to provide a showcase for their collection of paintings and ceramics. It presents an unique example of early 20thC style and culture in Britain. The display includes paintings by Ben and Winifred Nicholson and ceramics by Bernard Leach and Shoji Hamada. Since 1935 The Dartington Hall Trust, a registered charity, has given focus, impetus and charitable support to a variety of activities connected with education, the arts, research and the regeneration of the countryside and the rural economy.
This activity has evolved from an experiment begun in 1925 by Leonard Elmhirst and his American wife, Dorothy Whitney Straight. Leonard was interested in farming, forestry and the need to revitalise and create employment in an impoverished countryside. Dorothy believed passionately in the arts as a channel for personal and social renewal. Together they tried to give substance to a vision of the abundant life, in which the values of learning, community, worthwhile jobs and sound business practice might be balanced and combined. The renovation of the beautiful 1000 acre estate and buildings was the cornerstone for the creation of an extraordinary range of artistic and educational ventures and businesses.These and more recent endeavours have made it an internationally known cultural centre and improved the economic base of the area.