London’s eclectic architectural heritage spans across centuries, ranging from historical masterpieces such as St Paul’s Cathedral, to 21st century skyscrapers like The Shard
London’s eclectic architectural heritage spans across centuries, ranging from historical masterpieces such as St Paul’s Cathedral, to 21st century skyscrapers like The Shard
Although there are some older properties in London, the Georgian period between 1714-1837 gave rise to a new trend for houses to be built with grand proportions and high ceilings, to maximise comfort and give homes much more space and light than their predecessors (many of which were destroyed in the Great Fire of London). Georgian houses usually conform to the Palladian design principles of symmetry and perspective, and emulate some of the qualities of the classical temple architecture of Ancient Greek and Rome. Hipped roofs were often hidden behind parapets, and columns were added to entrances to create Neoclassical fascias, sometimes adorned with moulded embellishments. Other typical characteristics include semi-circular fanlights above the main doors, paired chimneys, panelled windows, and decorative railings made from ornate ironwork.
Although the world’s most famous Georgian residence is 10 Downing Street, complete with its arched lantern holders above the front steps, much more magnificent examples can be found in Belgravia, St James’s, and surrounding Regent's Park, where homes can fetch up to £185million. Many of the lavish terraces and crescents that overlook the park, including Hanover Terrace and Cumberland Terrace, were designed by John Nash - one of the most celebrated architects in British history who was also responsible for the designs of Marble Arch, Regent Street and Buckingham Palace.
Buckingham Palace, or Buckingham House as it was originally known, is perhaps the best direct example of Georgian architecture
During the Victoria era, architecture moved away from boxy shapes and uniform proportions, and we saw the introduction of bay sash windows, porches, and steep pitched roofs tiled with slate. Iron railings became even more popular, as well as coloured bricks, stained glass panes for doors and entrance windows, geometric tiled hallways, high ceilings, cornicing, and medieval-inspired finials - all in-keeping with Gothic Revival, the most prominent and dramatic style of the time and one that’s perfectly depicted by the Houses of Parliament, St Pancras Railway Station and Tower Bridge. The Victorians were wildly ambitious developers and even though many striking buildings have since been demolished as a result of war or modernisation, there are still incredible examples of late 19th century homes across the capital. Most notably, the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is often described as a Victorian Citadel, with rows of immaculate terraced homes such as those in Carlyle Square, or red brick mansion blocks including Coleherne Court on Old Brompton Road and Albert Road Mansions on Kensington Gore.
As well as apartments and townhouses, the city is also studded with imposingly large properties from the period, including incredible mansions overlooking Clapham Common and Victorian villas in St John’s Wood, complete with sweeping gardens, converted coach houses, and modern luxuries such as swimming pools and cinemas.
St. Pancras station opened in 1868 and is one of the wonders of Victorian engineering. Along with the former Midland Grand Hotel, it is a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture
The Edwardian period at the start of the 20th century only lasted until the beginning of the first world war, however it still made its mark with architecture inspired by the growing Arts and Crafts movement, as well as Baroque and Georgian influences. As the city’s population continued to grow at an exponential rate, more homes were built in newly developed suburban areas which impacted their requirements, and in turn, how they looked. This resulted in shorter, wider homes without basements or third floors - often used for servants during previous eras - as well as both front and back gardens. There was also a preference for handmade embellishments, in contrast to the mass production of the Victorian age, with many homes decorated with intricately carved fixtures and features including wooden framed porches and doors with glass panels inspired by Art Nouveau. Some houses were also adorned with mock-Tudor cladding and multi-panel sash windows.
Notable examples of Edwardian architecture in London include the Old Bailey, Marylebone Station, The Electric Cinema on Portobello Road, and Oxford Street’s Selfridges. Period homes can be found a little further afield in locations such as Richmond-on-Thames and Muswell Hill, which was largely developed in the early 20th century and has a significant number of Edwardian retail parades and streets. North London’s Hampstead Garden Suburb is also the embodiment of Edwardian elegance, with many of its areas designed by Britain’s foremost Edwardian architect, Sir Edwin Lutyens. Both the suburb and the wider area of Hampstead are lined with impressive detached houses and luxury Edwardian mansions, and continue to attract high profile residents - including internationally acclaimed artists, actors and musicians - thanks to the timeless appeal and historic elegance of quintessentially British homes.