England emerged from the wars of the early eighteenth century as a world power, her colonies and dominions vastly extended. During this period, a reaction to the excesses of the Baroque led to the adoption of a new style of architecture and interior decoration. Inspired by the proportional classicism of the great Italian architect Andrea Palladio, designers such as Lord Burlington, Colen Campbell and William Kent created a new architectural style: Palladianism. The style was to revolutionize town and country house design throughout Britain and North America during the eighteenth century.
This book explores the emergence of the style in the design of English Palladian villas, such as Marble Hill and Stourhead, and traces its influence on the average home, through the pattern books written by James Gibbs, Robert Morris and their prolific successors Batty Langley and the Halfpenny brothers. Focusing on the typical Palladian house between 1715 and 1755, the author looks at how Palladian interiors were both decorated and used. He explores the origins, forms and development of the style through an examination of the building materials, fixtures and fittings and colours and coverings of the period, presenting a fascinating and comprehensive picture of the architecture, furnishing and decor of the era.
Written by the award-winning author of Adam Style, and illustrated with over 250 key images, this book provides essential reference to the early Georgian house; an invaluable guide to all those who occupy such houses, and a visual resource for all those involved in architecture, interior decoration or the applied arts.
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