The Tudor period, which spans the years 1485 to 1603 and encompasses the reign of the five monarchs beginning with Henry VII, has long been credited with producing some of the most iconic architectural designs the UK has ever seen. From spectacularly preserved castle walls to the stunningly monolithic Hampton Court Palace, the Tudor era has left its mark on the architectural landscape of England. But it was during this period that the style now known as ‘Tudor Revival’ was born.

Ightham Mote, one of the earliest examples of Tudor architecture, is believed to have been built in the 1370s. Although the house has undergone various renovations over the centuries, the building still retains much of its original character, with its grand entrance hall being both grand and imposing. With its distinctive half-timbered walls and striking lancet windows, Ightham Mote has become an iconic symbol of the Tudor period, and an important example of early Tudor design.

The next major contribution to Tudor architecture came in the form of the royal palaces of the Houses of Tudor, beginning with the iconic Hampton Court Palace, designed by Thomas Wolsey in 1520. With its sprawling grounds and ornately designed interiors, the palace became a symbol not only of power, but also of sophistication, and set the standard for the Revival style.

The early 20th century saw the designs of Sir Edwin Lutyens, one of the foremost Tudor Revivalists, take centre stage. In order to create a modern take on the traditional style, he drew on the influences of both the National Trust and Arts and Crafts Movement to create some of the most iconic and influential designs of the era. From the grand country estates of Hampstead and Saltram to the suburban villas of Sandbanks, Lutyens’ work brought together both modernity and refinement whilst retaining the quintessential character of Tudor design.

One of the most notable Tudor Revival projects of the period was the Lowther Castle in Cumbria, built by the architect Robert Lorimer in 1912. With its elegant mullioned windows, imposing turrets and meticulously crafted stone doorways, the house has become a much-coveted design in the world of Tudor Revivalists.

The style has also seen success in the United States, particularly in California. With its cooling coastal air and mild climate, the region proved to be an ideal setting for a house in the Tudor Revival style. Houses like the Hearst Castle, designed by Julia Morgan in the 1920s, incorporated a variety of Tudor-inspired elements blended with Moorish, Spanish, and Mediterranean Revival, including steeply pitched roofs and elaborate brickwork. The Alameda pictured above is a prime example of his Tudor work utilizing stylistic timber couples with brick, stucco facade, and evenly spaced windows with a grandiose sensibility.

In recent years, modern-meets-historic contemporary interpretations of the Tudor Revival style have been popular, particularly those designed by the likes of Joeb Moore & Philip Gregory. His interpretation of the style is a mix of the traditional and the modern and often employs sleek lines, a play of light and glass and contemporary finishes, many of which can be seen in his spectacularly designed houses in South Wales, Yorkshire and Kent.

Ultimately, the Tudor Revival style is a testament to the lasting legacy and enduring popularity of this iconic period of English history. From Ightham Mote to the grand country houses of Lutyens and modern interpretations, the Tudor Revival style still resonates today, reflecting the timeless appeal of its long-held traditions whilst also offering modern updates to suit the times.