Robert Smythson
b. c.1535;
d. Wollaton, 1614.

Robert Smythson was undoubtedly the leading English famous architect of the late 16-century and early 17-century. Smythson built some of the most magnificent and original houses of the Elizabethan era, but very little is known of his birth, background, formal education or professional career. The earliest documentation dates from 1568, when Sir John Thynne appointed him to oversee the rebuilding of his home at Longleat. Smythson’s actual contribution to the final design is uncertain, owing to the long and complicated history of the house. Its significance within the development of an English Renaissance style is, however, undeniable and this success earned Smythson the opportunity to design a series of remarkable country houses. His detailing fused elements of Serlio’s Architecture, English Gothic and Flemish influences to produce a romantic synthesis of stunning originality, not merely a bland pastiche. Robert was assisted latterly by his son John (d. 1634), who is himself credited with the design of several distinguished houses, most notably the rambling Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire (c.1612-34).

List of major buildings / works:
Longleat House, Wilts., 1572-80.
Wollaton Hall, Notts., 1580-88.
Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire, 1590-97.
Burton Agnes Hall, Yorks., 1601-10.
Chastleton House, Oxon., c.1602.
Wootton Lodge, Staffs.,c.1610.

Bibliography:
James Lees-Milne, Tudor Renaissance, London, 1951.
Mark Girouard, Robert Smythson and the Architecture of the Elizabethan Era, London, 1966.
Malcolm Airs, The Making of the English Country House 1500-1640, London, 1975.