The architecture of James Gibbs
James Gibbs was one of the most distinguished architects in Britain, a country with no shortage of architectural giants. Born in the year 1682, James Gibbs exerted an influence upon those that followed him, which can still be felt today.
Among Gibbs' most notable works were the St-Mary-Le-Strand (which was his first ever public building project), St Martin's-in-the-Fields (pictured above), London, the nave of All Saint's, Derby (currently known as Derby Cathedral), the Senate House at Cambridge University and the Radcliffe Camera (pictured below) which can be seen in Oxford.
Gibbs began his studies at Marischal College, having been born to Roman Catholic parents who were from Aberdeen. He also received instruction from Carlo Fontana in Rome. After having made a favourable impression upon the Earl of Mar during his travels, Gibbs made his way to London in the year 1710.
Upon his arrival, he quickly began work on an addition to King's College in Cambridge. He continued to be one of Mar's favoured architects and the earl included Gibbs in the list of architects who were to work on the new churches as outlined in the Act for Fifty New Churches.
The Radcliffe Camera in Oxford stands as one of James Gibbs highest achievements to date. Taking ten years to complete (from 1739 to 1749), the Camera is considered by many to be Gibbs most elegant designs and granted Gibbs an honorary Master of Arts degree.
James Gibbs also worked on the pavilion at the Orleans House in Twickenham in the year 1718. Built for the Scottish Secretary of State James Johnston, the pavilion was given the name the Octagon Room. To this day, this structure is the only part of the main house and the grounds that is left standing, a testament to James Gibbs lasting brilliance.
Gibbs published two important books in his lifetime, the Book of Architecture, which was published in 1728 and Rules for Drawing the Several Parts of Architecture, published in 1732. This latter book is a particularly enduring volume, having been a valuable reference for countless carpenters for many years.
James Gibbs died in the year 1754.
Original Authors: Doods Pangburn
Edit Update Authors: M.A.Harris
Updated On: 30/07/2008
