A Brief History of Architecture in the United Kingdom

Classical Greek architecture significantly influenced Roman construction and became international with the expansion of the Roman Empire. Following its fall in 476 AD, architectural progress stagnated during the Dark Ages, which lasted several hundred years until the 12th century. During this period in Europe, the power of the Church was immense, and the Gothic style of ecclesiastical architecture became the dominant and accepted form. Notable examples of Gothic architecture from this period include the construction of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, which took place between 1163 and 1345.

In Britain, the love of Gothic evolved with the rise of Tudor England, starting in 1485 with the succession of Henry VII and ending in 1603 with the death of Elizabeth I. This period saw Britain's distinctive take on Gothic architecture, known for its impressive castles and palatial residences. Tudor design was robust, yet beautifully proportioned and styled. During the Elizabethan era, architecture saw a mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements, with more emphasis on symmetry and proportion. Longleat House is a prime example of this.

Jacobean architecture emerged, incorporating elements of Baroque and Renaissance style from Italy. Hatfield House is a notable example.

The Baroque architecture of the late 17^th Century that superseded the Jacobean style was characterised by grandeur, drama and movement. This style is perfectly illustrated by Sir Christopher Wren’s St Paul’s Cathedral in London.

During the Georgian era, spanning from 1714 to 1830, there was a continuation of classical Palladian styles. This period saw architects such as Colen Campbell and Lord Burlington promoting Palladianism through their publications and designs. Simultaneously, the Gothic Revival movement gained momentum, significantly influenced by the Church.

Augustus Pugin's "Examples of Gothic Architecture" played a crucial role in the Gothic Revival movement, inspiring architects to embrace and reinterpret Gothic styles in their designs. As Queen Victoria's reign approached, fashion fully shifted back to Gothic, sparking a revival movement. The Victorian architects, inspired by the beauty of the nation’s Churches, left a legacy of ornate decorations and gables in many of the houses we live in today.