The History Of London Architectural Styles
If you’ve ever visited or lived in London, England, you may have noticed the variety of architectural styles throughout the city. From Tudor-style houses to Regency townhouses and Brutalist high-rises, London is a mix of old and new, traditional and modern.
The city is a mash-up of a vast range of architectural designs and styles from a range of periods; our team here at Detailed Planning are passionate about offering our North London architect services; the range of design elements we can incorporate into our work is astounding, this is due to London being such as an incredibly diverse city.
This blog post will look at the history of London’s architectural styles and how they’ve evolved. So read on if you’re interested in learning more about British architecture or want some inspiration for your next home renovation project!
London has either been “one of” or “is” the most prominent location on the architectural world stage; you can take a journey through time simply by visiting the city and exploring the streets and courtyards dotted around the city to see some wonderous sights.
Baroque: 1600 – 1750
The Baroque style began in Italy in the late 1500s before spreading to other European countries, including England. This was a period of significant change and upheaval, both politically and socially, and this is reflected in the architecture of the time. Baroque buildings are often grand and opulent, with ornate details and dramatic features.
Most of the oldest buildings in London were built around the 16th century, but sadly most of these buildings were wiped out by the historical event The Great Fire of London. Once this event had taken place, the city needed rebuilding; this was tasked with the architect Cristopher Wren, who was without a shadow one of the most influential architects of the 17th Century.
Some other buildings that this incredible architect-designed include; Kensington Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and Hampton Court, with St Paul’s Cathedral being one of his most influential works that epitomise the Baroque architecture in London.
Georgian: 1714 – 1830
The Georgian period is one of the most well-known styles of architecture in London due to the exquisite buildings that were designed and built during this time. This style was used for public buildings and private residences for the wealthy citizens of London. This style hit the city during the significant expansion that came quickly after The Great Fire.
For the first time in the city’s history, the domestic homes being built were for financial profit; this is when the city buildings turned into tall terraced blocks that contained multiple properties that could be bought and rented to tenants.
The great estates that were built still dominate most of the city’s residential areas; the best examples we can give you are Bedford Estate and Grovsner Estate. You can still buy period properties in both of these locations.
Regency: 1811 – 1820
This was a time of significant change for the country, as it saw the end of the Napoleonic Wars and Britain’s role as a superpower on the global stage. This age of architecture lasted nine to ten years, so around a decade; during this time, many of London’s high-end buildings were created. Their white Stucco Façade and appearance of grandeur easily define them.
The lead architect, John Nash, designed and created the famous Regent Street and Regent’s Park; it is straightforward to walk around both locations and simply take in the architectural diamonds that litter the area. There is so much to see!
Victorian: 1837 – 1901
The Victorian era was a time of prosperity in Britain, which is reflected in the architecture of the time. This was a period of significant social change, with a massive increase in the population of London. Architects responded to this by building houses closer together and taller to make the most of the available space.
During the reign of Queen Victoria, one of the most prominent times was the Industrial Revolution, which resulted in one of the largest population booms and dramatic growth in the middle class; with this came the need for new property. Thus began the mass construction of London’s domestic living requirements.
This era saw a revival of architectural styles that fall straight into the elaborate category; if you look for examples of Victorian architecture in London, you will need to walk down any street. If you want something specific, you should head to St Pancras Station and the Houses of Parliament, both influential Victorian-period buildings.
Victorian architecture is covered in grandeur and elaborate designs; you can find it everywhere across London.
Edwardian: 1901 – 1910
After the death of Queen Victoria in 1901, her son King Edward VII took to the throne and reigned until 1910. This era was short-lived, but the city’s architecture changed once again during the short-lived reign.
This was a time of change and new technology; Great Britain had become an empire, and London was now a global city. Architects utilised new building materials such as concrete and steel, which allowed them to create taller buildings than previously. Terraces spread across the city needed to accommodate the workforce and middle-class flooding into the city, but these homes were bigger.
If you want to see this architectural era in London today, we recommend heading towards Hampstead Garden Suburb; here, you will see some of the city’s best examples of Edwardian architecture if you want to see something with a little more drama and grandeur, head to County Hall on the river, next to Westminster Bridge.
The Edwardian era might have only lasted for a short time, but its architectural influence on the city will last forever.
Present Day: 1910 – Now
The 20th century was a tremendous change for London and its architecture. The city increased, with new buildings and landmarks popping up everywhere. Architects were experimenting with new styles and materials, and London was at the forefront of this architectural revolution.
London has become one of the architectural hubs of the world, with new styles and innovations being developed all the time. But it all started with the Baroque era; the continuous growth of high-rise buildings since then has been none stop; some of them are not the prettiest looking buildings, but they are truly unique in their architecture.
Contact Detailed Planning For London Architecture Today
London has seen many changes, and its architecture reflects that. From the Romanesque style of the 11th century to today’s modern skyscrapers, each era has left its mark on the cityscape.
Suppose you’re interested in learning more about London’s architectural history or are planning to transform your home or commercial property to suit these architectural periods. In that case, all you need to do is speak to our team.
We have Architects in North London who can help you with all your queries. All you need to do is speak to our team; we can work with you to design some of the highest-quality designs in London.