Shortlisted for the Society of Architectural Historians of Great Britain 2026 Alice Davis Hitchcock MedallionThis new architectural history provides new interpretations and insights about England’s suburbs over the last two centuries as well as a rich synthesis of existing knowledge. The book covers a period of unparalleled urban growth and discusses the varied character of the resulting buildings and landscapes, set out in seven thematic chapters. All kinds of suburbs are considered, examined at all scales from entire developments to individual buildings, drawing upon examples from around the country. The text is heavily illustrated with newly commissioned ground and aerial photography, maps and plans as well as historic images. Consideration is given to the key players who have engaged in planning and building suburbs, the controlling forces and shaping ideologies, quintessential building types and landscape uses, and the impact of social and physical change on suburbs. Now home to the majority of the population, suburbs are ubiquitous and often taken for granted while perceptions of suburbia are not always been positive. This book aims to explore and celebrate our suburban heritage, explaining what makes them special and interesting.
