Surrey

Surrey, England's "Home County," is a mix of rural and urban architecture and home to many historic buildings. This fully revised and enhanced edition, the first since 1971, is packed with new information on its major historic buildings and Victorian set pieces, as well as fresh appreciation of the twentieth century. Domestic architecture is also prominent, ranging from medieval farmhouses to high-class suburban estates.

Format: Hardback
Length: 940 pages
Publication date: 22 November 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

Surrey, England's renowned "Home County," is the subject of a recently released volume that delves into its diverse blend of rural and urban architecture, as well as its numerous significant historic buildings. Originally published in 1962, Surrey marked the first collaboration between Pevsner and another author for the Building s of England series, and Ian Nairns' captivating and thought-provoking descriptions have since been cherished by countless enthusiasts. For centuries, Surrey has served as a playground for London, attracting thousands of commuters to its picturesque landscapes. However, much of the county remains deeply wooded or surprisingly bucolic, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city. This fully revised and enhanced edition, the first since 1971, is packed with new information on its major historic buildings, including Waverley Abbey, Farnham Castle, Sutton Place, and Loseley Park. It also provides expanded accounts of its Victorian set pieces, such as Royal Holloway College, Holloway Sanatorium, and Charterhouse School, alongside a fresh appreciation of the twentieth century, including its prominent landmark, Guildford's cathedral.

Domestic architecture plays a prominent role in Surrey, showcasing a rich tapestry of styles and periods. Medieval farmhouses, adorned with picturesque thatched roofs and timber frames, dot the countryside, reminiscent of the county's agricultural heritage. Seventeenth-century gentry houses in the Artisan Classical style exude elegance and sophistication, while eighteenth-century country houses showcase the grandeur of the era. Victorian and Edwardian businessmens' residences, designed by renowned architects like Norman Shaw, Lutyens, and Voysey, stand as iconic examples of architectural excellence. These buildings, often adorned with intricate woodwork, stained glass windows, and landscaped gardens, reflect the wealth and prosperity of the period.

Surrey's architectural diversity extends beyond the residential realm. Georgian-designed landscapes, with their symmetrical gardens and grand fountains, grace the parks and gardens of the county. Military cemeteries, with their imposing gravestones and serene surroundings, pay tribute to the sacrifices made in times of war. Seminaries and shooting clubs, with their architectural styles reflecting their respective functions, add to the county's eclectic mix. Lime kilns, with their distinctive chimneys and industrial architecture, stand as remnants of Surrey's industrial past. Lastly, lunatic asylums, with their imposing structures and therapeutic environments, reflect the historical treatment of mental health issues.

In conclusion, Surrey's architectural heritage is a testament to its rich history and cultural diversity. From medieval farmhouses to Georgian-designed landscapes, from Victorian set pieces to military cemeteries, and from lunatic asylums to lime kilns, the county offers a captivating blend of rural and urban architecture. This fully revised and enhanced edition of the Building s of England series provides a comprehensive exploration of Surrey's architectural treasures, offering a deeper appreciation for the county's architectural legacy.

Weight: 962g
Dimension: 222 x 125 x 45 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300234787