Temples of Luxury

In the long nineteenth century, British institutions such as hotels, inns, arcades, bazaars, co-operatives, shops, and department stores were coded as 'luxurious' and were associated with leisure and modernity. This two-volume collection of primary sources examines the architectural innovation and interior decoration of these institutions, as well as the experience of staff and period debates over the morality of consumption. The edition aims to explore a fascinating but neglected side of the British nineteenth century by bringing together annotated primary texts and visual material.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 942 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In the long nineteenth century, a significant transformation occurred in the British landscape, characterized by the proliferation of institutions that were often coded as 'luxurious.' These establishments, including hotels, inns, arcades, bazaars, co-operatives, shops, and department stores, emerged as symbols of affluence and modernity. This period witnessed not only an increase in individual consumerism but also the institutionalization of opulent spaces, such as the newly constructed grand hotels, purportedly an American innovation, and department stores, inspired by the French grands magasins. These environments, which were once reserved for the upper classes, became accessible to a broader segment of society, fostering a sense of leisure and belonging.

Moreover, these luxurious institutions were not merely adorned with architectural innovation and interior decoration; they also reflected the changing social dynamics of the time. They became hubs of social interaction, where people from different backgrounds came together to exchange ideas, engage in commerce, and enjoy leisure activities. The experience of staff within these institutions was crucial, as they played a vital role in creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for their patrons.

However, the concept of luxury was not without its controversies. During this period, there were ongoing debates about the morality of consumption, particularly in light of the growing wealth and inequality in society. Some critics argued that the pursuit of luxury led to wasteful spending and exploitation, while others defended it as a symbol of success and achievement. These debates often reflected the broader social and political tensions of the time, with debates about the role of the state, the distribution of wealth, and the ethics of consumerism.

In order to shed light on this fascinating but often overlooked aspect of British history, this edition seeks to bring together a collection of annotated primary texts and visual material. These sources provide a firsthand account of the experiences of individuals who worked in these institutions, as well as a glimpse into the social and cultural context in which they operated. By exploring the luxurious side of these institutions, including their architectural innovations and interior decoration, we can gain a deeper understanding of the role that luxury played in shaping nineteenth-century Britain.

Furthermore, by examining the other side of luxury, namely the experiences of staff and the period debates over the morality of consumption, we can gain a more nuanced perspective on the complexities of this phenomenon. The staff of these institutions, who worked tirelessly to provide a high-quality service to their patrons, played a crucial role in shaping the luxury experience. Their interactions with customers, their dedication to their work, and their contributions to the social and cultural life of their communities were essential in creating a sense of luxury that was accessible and desirable to all.

In conclusion, this two-volume collection of British primary sources provides a valuable insight into the institutions that defined the luxurious side of nineteenth-century Britain. By exploring the architectural innovations, interior decoration, staff experiences, and period debates over the morality of consumption, we can gain a deeper understanding of the role that luxury played in shaping this fascinating period of history.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367425814