Small period houses have evolved from a medieval tradition, through the formality of Georgian and Victorian to the distinctive style of the 1930s. This beautiful book explains the changes in building materials, the effect of social and economic constraints and foreign influences, and celebrates the fascinating heritage of the English period home. Examples taken from over twenty English counties, identifying different styles and materials and showing the relationship between the house, its land and the wider urban space. A guide to looking at your own period house, identifying and dating original elements and later changes, with advice on sources for historical research. Looking at how gardens have developed and using the seminal influence of large gardens to design the space around a small period property. An explanation of listed building status, conservation areas and period house buying.