Reviews
"Many are familiar with the arts and crafts'?style houses that still exist in many cities across America. However, few may realize that the movement began in England in 1884 with the foundation of the Art Workers' Guild in London. Hyde (architectural historian) and Whittaker (curator, writer and expert on the arts and crafts'?style houses of the Lake District) illustrate that in counterpoint to dark and cluttered Victorian-era houses, arts and crafts homes were comfortably proportioned, full of sunshine, at ease with nature, and visibly handcrafted. Most were built as holiday dwellings for wealthy industrialists from northern England. The Lake District offered a restful setting among gently rolling hills and peaceful bodies of water. The book's color photographs are a treat and the informative text provides an excellent education on the subject. Renowned architects such as Edwin Lutyens and C. F. A. Voysey are highlighted. Each chapter includes details of specific houses beautifully illustrated with images and floor plans. VERDICT Recommended for anyone who derives pleasure from the arts and crafts architecture and decorative styles." '? Library Journal