The Story of the Country House: A History of Places and People

The Story of the Country House is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the British country house, tracing its evolution through political and economic changes and highlighting its architectural masterpieces and notable characters.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2023
Publisher: Yale University Press

The Story of the Country House is a comprehensive and captivating exploration of the British country house, delving into its evolution in response to shifting political and economic landscapes. Author Clive Aslet unveils the rich histories behind individual houses, their architects, and occupants, painting a vivid picture of the broader context in which these grand residences flourished and subsequently declined before experiencing a resurgence in the twenty-first century. This authoritative work delves into the genesis, style, and purpose of architectural masterpieces like Hardwick Hall, Hatfield House, and Chatsworth, as well as the numerous country houses that have been lost to war and economic decline. It also introduces a diverse range of characters, including owners with their dynastic obsessions and diverse sources of wealth, as well as renowned architects such as Inigo Jones, Sir John Vanbrugh, Robert Adam, Sir John Soane, and A.W.N. Pugin, who either dazzled or outraged their contemporaries with their designs. By taking a fresh look at this enduringly popular building type, The Story of the Country House sheds light on the reasons why it continues to hold such fascination for us today.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 196 x 132 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300267600