Daniel Maudlin

Constructing Identity and Tradition: Englishness, Politics and the Neo‐Traditional House

Abstract In an increasingly globalized world, national governments appropriate vernacular building traditions to support national identity-building political agendas. In England the neo-traditional house has become an established feature of suburban architecture. This is not, however, as is often assumed, indicative of the nostalgia of the consumer. Rather, neo-traditionalism is the result of planning policies introduced by the government to preserve regional architectural identities and maintain a visual “Englishness” in the built environment. These policies have, in turn, been undermined by the nationwide standardization of “traditional” designs by national house-building companies.

Crossing Boundaries: Revisiting the Thresholds of Vernacular Architecture

Abstract This paper discusses and questions the boundaries of vernacular architecture as conceived, interpreted and reinterpreted since the late eighteenth century. The activities and boundaries of the Vernacular Architecture Group are considered in the context of work in other fields also concerned with architecture and the vernacular. The paper argues for a broad understanding of vernacular architecture as an inclusive social study that is not necessarily restricted by boundaries of time and place.

The hotel in history: evolving perspectives

ABSTRACT This discussion draws together six of the leading practitioners of hotel history in order to explore the state of the field and its larger relevance. Together they touch on questions related to imperialism and colonialism, science and technology, transatlantic connections, national distinctiveness (or lack thereof), as well as economic, social and cultural history.