History & Evolution

Architectural Timeline

Tracing the development of NW3 from a spa village to a modernist laboratory.

Architectural Timeline

300 Years of NW3 Architecture

From Georgian spa town elegance to contemporary innovation, explore the architectural evolution of Hampstead through the ages.

1750
1800
1850
1900
1950
2000
1890-1914

Arts & Crafts Era

The Arts & Crafts movement brought a philosophy of honest craftsmanship and truth to materials. Hampstead became a center for this movement, with architect-designed houses featuring handcrafted details, vernacular influences, and integration with nature.

Key Characteristics
  • Handcrafted details throughout
  • Vernacular building forms
  • Integration with garden settings
  • Roughcast or pebbledash render
  • Deep roof overhangs with exposed rafters
  • Inglenook fireplaces
  • Built-in furniture and joinery
  • Simple geometric decorative patterns
Materials & Techniques
  • Local brick and stone
  • Roughcast lime render
  • Hand-made clay tiles
  • Oak timber framing
  • Hand-forged ironwork
  • Art pottery tiles
  • Leaded light windows
  • Hand-planed timber
Key Architects
C.F.A. VoyseyM.H. Baillie ScottParker & UnwinCharles Harrison Townsend