‘Is it in Pevsner?’: A Short History of the ‘Buildings of …' Series - Charles O'Brien

Feb 4, 2025

Charles O'Brien, Listing and Architectural Research Director at Historic England, dives into the rich history of the 'Buildings of...' series by Nikolaus Pevsner. He discusses Pevsner’s significant contributions to British architecture and his journey from Germany to England. O'Brien emphasizes the crucial role of partnerships in Pevsner's work, particularly highlighting the influence of his wife. The conversation further explores the evolution and challenges of the series, while also reflecting on its legacy and the future of architectural guides, particularly in Ireland.

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ANECDOTE

Lecture Setting

Charles O'Brien began his lecture in Barnard's Inn Hall.
He described the hall's history and architectural features, echoing Pevsner's style.

INSIGHT

Pevsner's Legacy

Nikolaus Pevsner's Buildings of England series became essential for architectural enthusiasts.
The series expanded beyond England to cover Wales, Scotland, and Ireland.

ANECDOTE

Pevsner's Early Life

Pevsner, born in Leipzig in 1902, first visited England in 1930.
He fled Nazi Germany and settled in Hampstead, working various jobs.

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Watch the Q&A session here: https://youtu.be/LUyFLOUi-D4

This lecture traces the history of this famous series by Sir Nikolaus Pevsner, starting from its conception in 1947. It describes the research and writing of the original forty-six volumes for England and the extension of the books to Scotland, Wales and Ireland. It then assesses their significance alongside a reflection on the 2024 achievement of the full updating of the English series.

This lecture was recorded by Charles O'Brien on 5th December 2025 at Barnard's Inn Hall, London.

Charles O’Brien FSA is Listing and Architectural Research Director at Historic England. Until 2022 he was the joint Series Editor of the Pevsner Architectural Guides.

He graduated with a degree in History of Art from University College London before joining the series in 1997, where he worked fulltime on the research, writing and editing of the new editions. As author and co-author he has written the revised volumes to East London, Bedfordshire, Huntingdonshire and Peterborough,Hampshire and Surrey. He is a former Commissioner of Historic England and former chair of their London Advisory Committee and has served as an adviser to government on local heritage. He is also a liveryman of the Mercers Company and member of their Heritage and Arts Committee

The transcript of the lecture is available from the Gresham College website: https://www.gresham.ac.uk/watch-now/pevsner-buildings

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