LICEUL TEHNOLOGIC ”CONSTANTIN CANTACUZINO”
BAICOI, PRAHOVA
LUCRARE SCRISA PENTRU OBTINEREA ATESTATULUI
LA LIMBA ENGLEZA
ARHITECTURE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM
NUME
CLASA A-XII-A B
PROFESOR COORDONATOR
Forward:
The question “what is architecture?” is one of the most basic but also one of the most
challenging stuff architects ask themselves. It is a philosophical question that repels a complete
answer yet incites an intellectual examination. Architect’s answers to this question help outline
their designs.
WHAT IS ARCHITECTURE? is also a question that is particularly important for
students who are looking for different perspectives on architecture as they come to form their
own definitions.
While artists work from real to the abstract, architects must work from the abstract to the
real. Architecture, beneath all its limitations of engineering, safety, function, climate and
economy, arouse us with designs in space and light achieved in the abstract.
The profession of designing buildings, open areas, communities, and other artificial
constructions and environments, usually with some regard to aesthetic effect. Architecture often
includes design or selection of furnishings and decorations, supervision of construction work,
and the examination, restoration, or remodelling of existing buildings.
Architecture is a passion, a vocation, a calling — as well as a science and a business. It
has been described as a social art and also an artful science. Architecture must be of the highest
quality of design. Architecture provides, in the words of Marcus Vitruvius, the great Roman
architect and historian, “firmness, commodity and delight.
Introduction
As told in the forward word, British architecture is one of the most significant turning points in
architecture starting from the prehistoric age and ending in the present days.
During the prehistoric period, many old standing stone monuments were built, including
Stonehenge, Devil's Arrows, Rudston Monolith, and Castlerigg. Basilicas, baths, amphitheatres,
triumphal arches, villas, Roman temples, Roman highways, Roman forts, stockades, and aqueducts all
arose as a result of the advent of Ancient Roman architecture. The first cities and towns, such as
London, Bath, York, Chester, and St Albans, were founded by the Romans. Hadrian's Wall, which
stretches across northern England, is perhaps the most well-known example. The Roman Baths in Bath,
Somerset, are another well-preserved example.
Secular buildings in early Medieval architecture were basic structures made primarily of wood
and topped with thatch. Pilaster-strips, blank arcading, baluster shafts, and triangle headed openings
characterized ecclesiastical architecture, which spanned from a synthesis of Hiberno–Saxon monasticism
to Early Christian basilica and architecture. Following the Norman conquest in 1066, various castles were
built across England to help law lords maintain their rule and to safeguard the north from invasion. The
Tower of London, Warwick Castle, Durham Castle, and Windsor Castle are just a few of the most well-
known medieval castles.
English Gothic architecture flourished throughout the Plantagenet era, with medieval buildings
such as Canterbury Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, and York Minster serving as key examples. [17]
Castles, palaces, grand mansions, universities, and parish churches all grew out of the Norman
foundation. The 16th century Tudor style finished medieval architecture; the four-centred arch, now
known as the Tudor arch, was a distinctive element, as were wattle and daub buildings. Following the
Renaissance, the English Baroque style emerged, which was championed by architect Christopher Wren
in particular.
Sir Christopher Wren PRS FRS (30 October 1632 [O.S. 20 October] – 8 March 1723 [O.S. 25
February]) was a British architect who lived from 1632 to 1723. Was an anatomist, astronomer,
geometer, and mathematician-physicist who was one of the most well-known English architects in
history. Following the Great Fire of London in 1666, he was tasked with rebuilding 52 churches in the
city, including what is considered his masterpiece, St Paul's Cathedral on Ludgate Hill, which was
completed in 1710.
Others in his office, particularly Nicholas Hawksmoor, are now widely credited with the primary
creative responsibility for a number of the churches. The Royal Hospital Chelsea, the Old Royal Naval
College, Greenwich, and the south front of Hampton Court Palace are among Wren's other significant
structures.
Chaper I-medieval age
Tudor period
The Tudor period in Britain was the penultimate phase of Medieval architecture, spanning the
late 15th and early 17th centuries.
Masonry chimneys, clustered windows, half-timbering, and gable roofs are all common aspects
of Tudor architecture.
The low Arch and some magnificent Oriel Windows are also quintessential 'Tudor' features.
Brick was widely used, and towards the end of the century, even half-timbering was popular in
working-class homes.
Architecture in the Elizabethan Period
The architectural style was determined by the Prodigy houses once Elizabeth I ascended to the
throne of England. The nobles who benefited from the destruction of the monasteries built these gaudy,
pompous country houses.
During Elizabeth's reign, no new palaces were erected, but numerous new mansions for the
wealthy were.
As the design approach moved away from defensive requirements to instead make advantage of
glass' ability to flood buildings with natural light, these houses were'more glass than wall.'
Queen Elizabeth would travel from London to Bristol to stay in some of these magnificent new
structures, which would also have to accommodate 150 of her closest traveling companions.
Baroque
Since Medieval times, Italian designers have been moving to and influencing English
architectural designs through books and in person.
Baroque architecture became fashionable in the late 17th century and was seen to be a more
complex version of Classicism.
It infused Renaissance underpinnings with extravagant overtures intended to be gaudy, flashy,
and theatrical in nature.
The first Grand Baroque country mansions appeared in the late 1690s, with Sir Christopher
Wren, Sir John Vanbrugh, and Nicholas Hawksmoor among the most famous characters of the
movement.
Both St Paul's Cathedral and Greenwich Hospital, with their characteristic Renaissance domes,
were designed by Sir Christopher Wren.
Blenheim Palace is the only non-royal edifice to bear the name of Palace, and it was designed by
Nicholas Hawksmoor. It was here that Sir Winston Churchill was born and raised.
The Baroque style has its origins in church architecture, particularly Catholic church architecture,
but its impact expanded throughout Europe and affected the designers of uniquely English country
houses.
The Baroque impact was short-lived, and there aren't many contemporary English Baroque
mansions. There are more Baroque churches because the style became popular after the Great Fire of
London in 1666, when many churches were destroyed and had to be rebuilt. Sir Christopher Wren
rebuilt over 30 churches in the Baroque style
.
Chapter II-Transition from Medieval to Renaissance
Georgian
Between 1780 to 1820, the Georgian era of architecture flourished. It was influenced by Roman
architecture and featured lavish interiors and classical exteriors.
Ceilings were usually separated into sections and walls were usually painted in a single color.
Lavender, pink, pea green, and light blue were popular colors throughout the Georgian era. High ceilings
and paneled doors were among the other features.
Neo-Georgian architecture is early nineteenth-century architecture inspired by historic
buildings. Palladian architecture had been on the increase prior to the Georgian era. This movement was
influenced by Venetian architect Andrea Palladio and briefly gained popularity among the British in the
mid-seventeenth century, before the country entered a period of austerity due to the Civil War.orgian
Between 1780 to 1820, the Georgian era of architecture flourished. It was influenced by Roman
architecture and featured lavish interiors and classical exteriors.
Ceilings were usually separated into sections and walls were usually painted in a single color.
Lavender, pink, pea green, and light blue were popular colors throughout the Georgian era. High ceilings
and paneled doors were among the other features.
Neo-Georgian architecture is early nineteenth-century architecture inspired by historic
buildings. Palladian architecture had been on the increase prior to the Georgian era. This movement was
influenced by Venetian architect Andrea Palladio and briefly gained popularity among the British in the
mid-seventeenth century, before the country entered a period of austerity due to the Civil War.
Victorian Age
Various British architectural styles, such as Medieval and Renaissance, were popular during the
Victorian era. The Tudor and mock-Gothic architectural styles were resurrected, and the early portion of
the century saw a lot of intricate decoration. Approaches to architecture got more straightforward as
the age progressed.
Architects were able to use glass and iron thanks to the Industrial Revolution. The steep pitches
of Victorian roofs made them ideal for loft conversions. Terracotta tiles, bay sash windows, multi-
colored brickwork, large mantelpieces for ornamentation, white-painted furniture, and cast-iron gates
are all hallmarks of the period.
Chapter III From the 1900’s to present days
Edwardian
In terms of architectural tendencies, the Edwardian period spans 1901 to 1918. It influenced the
Georgian and medieval periods and became known as 'Neo-Baroque.'
Larger frontages were granted to homes, allowing for more space for hallways. The colors got
paler. Patterns grew less complicated and elaborate. The Edwardian architectural style was also heavily
influenced by the Arts and Crafts Movement.
Small-paned leaded windows, roughcast walls, half-timbering, wooden porches, and bare
floorboards with rugs sitting on them are all hallmarks of Edwardian architecture.
Ard Deco
The Art Deco period lasted between around 1925 and 1939, and was synonymous with
modernity, innovation, harmony and simplicity.
The era had two parts: Zigzag Moderne in the 1920s and Streamline Moderne in the following
decade. Many courthouses, schools and other public buildings adopted this style in the era, with many
Art Deco-inspired buildings not actually being unveiled until after the war. Features included small round
windows, curved corner walls, flat roofs, metal railings, zigzags and chevrons.
1930s
During the 1930s, a large number of individuals relocated to rural areas outside of towns and
cities, taking advantage of improved transportation links.
Homes were erected in a variety of British architectural styles throughout this time period, with
structures drawing inspiration from the Victorian and Tudor periods. Curves and simple lines were
common features of modern structures, which were often made of steel and cement.
The majority of the houses were smaller than older residences. During this time, bungalows,
especially single-level bungalows and dormer bungalows with bedrooms built into the roof, became
popular. In the 1930s, a great number of flats were constructed. Oak doors, red clay roof tiles, fake
beams, and oak paneling interiors were also popular characteristics.
1930s
During the 1930s, a large number of individuals relocated to rural areas outside of towns and
cities, taking advantage of improved transportation links.
Homes were erected in a variety of British architectural styles throughout this time period, with
structures drawing inspiration from the Victorian and Tudor periods. Curves and simple lines were
common features of modern structures, which were often made of steel and cement.
The majority of the houses were smaller than older residences. During this time, bungalows,
especially single-level bungalows and dormer bungalows with bedrooms built into the roof, became
popular. In the 1930s, a great number of flats were constructed. Oak doors, red clay roof tiles, fake
beams, and oak paneling interiors were also popular characteristics.
Postmodernism in architecture
Postmodernism is an eclectic, colourful style of architecture and the decorative arts that appeared
from the late 1970s and continues in some form today.
It emerged as a reaction to Modernism and the Modern Movement and the dogmas associated
with it. By the 1970s Modernism had begun to seem elitist and exclusive, despite its democratic
intentions. The failure of building methods and materials (shown in the collapse of Ronan Point,
a tower block in east London in 1968) and alienating housing estates was a focus for architects
and critics in the early 1970s.
Conclusion
The architecture of the United Kingdom, sometimes known as British architecture, is
made up of a variety of architectural styles that date from Roman times to the twenty-first
century. The most impactful innovations have occurred in England, though Ireland, Scotland,
and Wales have all cultivated unique styles and played pivotal roles in the international history
of architecture. Although the United Kingdom has prehistoric and classical constructions,
British architectural history begins with the first Anglo-Saxon Christian churches, which were
built shortly after Augustine of Canterbury came in the country in 597. From the 11th century
onwards, Norman architecture in the form of castles and cathedrals was built on a massive scale
throughout Great Britain and Ireland to help impose Norman control on their dominions.
Secular medieval architecture has left a legacy of massive stone castles across the United
Kingdom, with a concentration lining both sides of the Anglo-Scottish border, originating from
the 14th-century Wars of Scottish Independence. After the introduction of gunpowder and
cannons, the English Renaissance encouraged the creation of new creative styles for residential
architecture, including Tudor, English Baroque, Queen Anne Style, and Palladian. After the
Scottish Enlightenment, Georgian, Scots Baronial, and Neoclassical architecture evolved, and
since the 1930s, numerous modernist forms have developed, however traditionalist resistance
organizations persist with the patronage of Charles, Prince of Wales.
Beyond the Great Britain, British architecture can be found in most of the former British
colonies and present territory around the world. Because of British control in India in the 19th
and 20th centuries, the effect is particularly prominent in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan[4].
The cities of Lahore, Mumbai, Kolkata, Dhaka, and Chittagong all contain British-style courts,
administrative buildings, and railway stations. A scheduled monument in the United Kingdom is
a "nationally important" archaeological site or historic building that is protected from unlawful
alteration. A listed building is a building or other structure that has been designated as having
special architectural, historical, or cultural significance; it is a widely used status that has been
applied to nearly half a million buildings in the United Kingdom, and it was enacted by the
Government of the United Kingdom.
