The Georgian Villa (Sutton Handbook Series) - Softcover

9780750920223: The Georgian Villa (Sutton Handbook Series)

Softcover

ISBN 10: 075092022X ISBN 13: 9780750920223

Publisher: Society for Promoting Christian, 1998

The villa remains one of the most potent architectural forms in western culture, the idea of a cultural retreat for relaxation and contemplation having endured from antiquity up to the present day. Yet there have been many changes in its structure and use following the social and economic circumstances of its owners, many of which took place during the Georgian period. This stimulating book brings together 13 leading historians to look at the 18th century villa in its wider context. Images of the villa - real or imagined - are shown to reveal much about contemporary attitudes. The role of Andrea Palladio is re-examined through the response of architects throughout the period to his work. The range of form, planning and sources of the villa is seen not only in Robert Adam's designs but also in the variations of the villa found in Edinburgh and Glasgow where it provided a balanced contrast between city and retreat. Later in the period changes in the demand for houses and the urban fabric brought the villa into the city where its elitist aspirations were replaced by democratizing principles.

"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.