The Other Tradition

Despite the achievements of the modern movement, the greater part of between-the-wars architecture in Britain remained traditional, exemplified by buildings such as Manchester City Library and Liverpool Cathedral. Country-house designs of the period also show how little the modern movement had gained ground. Some modern buildings were appearing, of course, and they are contrasted with the traditional styles and also those buildings influenced by Scandinavian and Dutch developments. In conclusion we focus on the simplified classicism of the winning design by Grey Wornum for the Royal Institute of British Architects building: conservative tradition modified by Modernist taste, a symbol of the restrained excellence appreciated by the profession.

© 1998-2001 The Roland Collection & Pira Intl.