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16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
4.0 out of 5 stars
A colourful introduction to the genius of Lutyens., 30 Sep 2001
By A Customer
Quite understandably, a lot has been written over the years about the life and prolific work of Sir Edwin Lutyens and although most of the literature is now out of print, it might seem that there is little to add that is new. However, it has to be admitted that although Lutyens' output as an architect is well documented, this has tended to overlook the fact that his work, given the opportunity, often encompassed a much wider and thorough field of design in general. Typically, the 'old' books gave details of his buildings, gardens and monuments largely illustrated in black and white with the original early 20th century photgraphs which appeared in Country Life forming a classic and dependable visual reference. This book by Elizabeth Wilhide is, however, illustrated with many recent high quality photographs showing interiors and exteriors of a selection of Lutyens' buildings, as the emphasis of this book is focused on design especially of interiors and homes. Helping enlarge on the points made are, once again carefully selected, old black and white images and several small sketches made by Lutyens annotated with his characteristic urgent, almost indecipherable handwriting. The life of the great man is documented quite well and forms a very adequate and readable biography within the space available; for this book presumably attempts to cover many aspects without becoming oversized and out of reach of the average pocket. In some ways, this has the unavoidable effect of leaving the reader a shade less than fully satisfied and wanting more but it would be impossible to cover everything in such detail. The complex, often playful yet determined mind of Lutyens is revealed which helps in the appreciation of his work all the more. I myself have on a second reading of my own copy noticed in one photograph, pilasters in the interior of one building which take the form of obelisks ..... inverted! This kind of visual joke must have been made with the straightest of faces yet it seamlessly blends perfectly with the otherwise cool classicism of the architecture. The author similarly has chosen to include amusing items such as unique and delightful clocks and chandeliers, quality photographs of which say more than words have done in the past. Furniture made to designs by Lutyens feature very often, apparently available to order from Lutyens' granddaughter, Candida, who has written a pleasing foreword to this book and collaborated in it's production. Thanks to my recollection of the photographs in this book, I was able quite by chance to identify the interior location of a recent dramatisation on TV which somehow seemed strangely familiar. To this end, a list of Lutyens' houses which may be visited by the public is included towards the back of the book. Sadly, it would seem one house, listed as a hotel, is no longer open to guests. With today's buoyant interest in interior design, this book reveals much that will catch the eye and capture the imagination and as a first reference to Lutyens, it performs a splendid service. It was a lovely stocking filler for me and would be for many others.
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