Architecture is one of the many ways people have shaped Dorset’s landscape over the years. As a rural county, Dorset has not often been at the forefront of cutting edge design, but it is the home-place of some influential architects, and the seat of some truly stunning design.
A Local Influence
These small sketches are by Ernest Wamsley Lewis (1898-1977), the architect behind the Apollo Victoria Theatre in Westminster. He moved back to his home town of Weymouth, and became an influential figure in the town, establishing the Weymouth Civic Society. Wamsley Lewis was responsible for building the Rainbow School at Wyke Regis, and the restoration of Tudor House, Trinity Street, to its original 17th century design.
Minimalist Dorset
An art-deco icon in Dorset is the Riviera Hotel at Bowleaze Cove, Weymouth. With a Modernist, Spanish design, the hotel became a prime holiday destination from its opening in 1937. It was later owned by Fred Pontins, as another in the holiday park’s chain, and continues to attract visitors today.
Churches old and new
The architect John Hicks (1816-1869) restored St Peter’s Church, Longbredy, in the mid-late 19th century. You can see the additions of a porch, vestry and south aisle in this mounted plan. A gallery supposedly supported by a single iron pillar was reportedly removed during this restoration.
One of Dorset’s most famous residents, Thomas Hardy, trained as an architect and was apprenticed to Mr Hicks. He won prizes from the Royal Institute of British Architects and went on to design his home, Max Gate in Dorchester, with his brother.
At the bequest of Walter Ralph Bankes (1853-1904), St Stephen’s Church at Kingston Lacy was built in 1905-1907. Designed by architect Charles Ponting in the popular Art and Crafts style, the church went through several initial designs, as shown in these ink and watercolour sketches. Walter’s widow Henrietta Bankes included depictions of her children in the east window, and a statue of St Stephen on the exterior included a boy in the likeness of her son Henry John Ralph Bankes (1902-1981).
You can see all of these images in our January display just by popping into Dorset History Centre.
Hello, do have any information on the Wyke House Hotel in Wyke Regis?
Hi Victor, if you can send us an email, one of the team will look into things for you – archives@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk. Thanks!