William Kent Research Paper

A question has arisen concerning the inspirations and design of the London Devonshire

House in the early 18th century. In October of 1733, a minor tragedy struck the site of the Old

Devonshire House in London as an accidental fire caused the building to be completely destroyed while in the process of refurbishment. As a result, William Cavendish, 3rd Duke of

Devonshire, had to find an architect to create a home matching his style and the tastes of the time. [1] The Devonshire House, designed by the Palladian architect William Kent, polarized opinions of historical art critics and architects throughout the two centuries it stood. However, it cannot be denied the imposing façade impacted London architecture for centuries to come.

William Kent

William Kent began his artistic career as a

While the exterior of his designs were often large, imposing,

P a g e | 3 clear, and sometimes dull, his interiors focused on the development of innate detail, extensive tastes and a broadening of space. Despite some calling his work “dull and ungraceful in its lines,” Kent developed his style and integrated it into British architecture, with the term Kentian denoting “rich Italian palatial interiors.” [1,2] With this emphasis on intricate artistic detail and imposing features, it becomes clear why Kent was chosen to design a building representing one of the more influential aristocratic families of the 18th century.

London architecture in the early 1730’s tended to reflect Georgian styles, with a heavy influence on symmetry and a restraint of ornament. Much of this style lasted through the

Industrial Revolution, resulting in the terraced housing that much of London has become known for. [3] As a result, the major aristocratic London houses of the time reflected much of this symmetric style on the exterior, while continuing to indulge in rich, decorative