Early English Renaissance

Because the English Renaissance encompassed such a long period of time and had many different smaller design periods within the renaissance as a whole, I decided to focus primarily on the earliest of the English Renaissance design styles.  Since England is somewhat isolated from the rest of Europe the renaissance took a long time before it was brought to England.  Their isolation, however, allowed them to develop forms and styles for themselves, without major influence from other countries that were deep into their renaissance styles.  Outside influences did have some influence on certain aspects of design styles in this time period.

The first style to appear during the English Renaissance was the Tudor style.  Characteristically Tudor style buildings have a timber framed construction.  There is a somewhat Gothic spirit to Tudor homes and other buildings.  Furniture was sparse and interiors were plainer than in future design periods.

The next style to appear was the Elizabethan.  Names of the design styles usually corresponded with the ruler of the time, in this case Queen Elizabeth.  The Elizabethan period was a time of great wealth in England, and this style serves to display that in furniture and interiors.  Formal gardens and other luxurious aspects were added to manors and country homes, which were built in abundance during this time.  

Finally, the last design period during the early renaissance was the Jacobean.  Plaster, as well as paneling painted white became very popular.  Carvings were abundant during this time period, as well as the use of upholstery, usually with a floral motif.

Examples of the modern Tudor style include the home below.  The architect used stone to mimic the timber frame on the facade, but incorporated timber into the window frames.  But you can see that the overall style of the house is very similar to what it was during the English Renaissance.

Jacobean influenced design appears to be popular today.  The use of carving and white plaster and paneling, especially in dining rooms, is found often.  As well as Jacobean inspired fabrics which one can find somewhere in almost every home.