Gibbs surrounds

The Gibbs surround is a blocky treatment of a Renaissance doorway or window. Typically each block alternates on a column with a flat or a rounded section. It is a variation on the "rusticated" style. It was popularised by the Scottish architect James Gibbs (1682-1754), though it can be found in examples that pre-date his influence. The first example shown is on the early eighteenth century Old Magistrate's House, Church Lane, Ledbury, Herefordshire. The second example is on Waterside House, Upton upon Severn, Worcestershire, and dates from c.1740.

photo 1 © T. Boughen     Camera: Olympus OMD E-M10
photo 2 © T. Boughen     Camera: iPhone

Regency shadows, Cheltenham

The Gloucestershire town of Cheltenham is a product of the Regency period (c.1795-1837). In 1788 George III stayed in the then market town. This event alongside the discovery of mineral springs and the construction of buildings to facilitate "taking the waters" led to a rapid expansion of the town. Today much of the private housing, parks, hotels, shops and civic buildings of that period remains and is a major attraction that draws visitors to the town. Most of the Regency houses are in the Renaissance style and many are rendered and painted. As we walked near Prittville Park I photographed this detail of one such house. The photograph may look like a black and white shot but I can assure you that it is colour.

photo © T. Boughen     Camera: Nikon Z 5