What is Archistory?

Archistory /a:ki'sto:ri / n. (pl. Archistories) a work of graphic art juxtaposing an architectural drawing of a building with an account of its history; where the architectural features of the house are represented with the maximum level of detail and accuracy, and the typeface and its layout complement the image creating an atmosphere of the period in which the house was built. -ORIGIN C16: architecture adj of architect via L. from GK arkhitektōn 'chief builder' +ME: history via L. from GK histōr 'learned, wise man'.

Architecture

Architectural drawings have always held a certain fascination for the homeowner. The three-dimensional shape and complexity of a building is translated into a specialised graphic language. Varying line weights and styles, combinations of dotted lines and cross-hatch shading not only document the architectural details, but also draw attention to a building’s form and its overall proportions. Clutter and confusion is removed. Parts of a building that may be obscured from ground level are revealed. Elements of a house unfamiliar to the owners such as the chimney tops are drafted with the same meticulous care as well known features, like the front door. Ben Taggart’s architectural drawings are faithful to every detail.

The information for the drawings is usually taken from measurements and photographs on site. Observational sketches are made at the property and later converted to precise scale drawings. It is possible to produce drawings for houses that have been demolished, using period photos and original plans. It is also possible to produce smaller Detail Drawings without a site visit.

The style of the house and the layout of the typeface complement one another so that the whole image creates an atmosphere of the period in which the house was built. This works as easily for a Georgian mansion or a Modernist house. Styles of architecture change and develop over time; similar changes occur in typography. The fonts selected for each commission along with other graphic elements such as decorative borders will reflect the period and style of the building.

with History

There is a natural interest in tracing the history of your home. Discovering who has lived in the house before you, what they did for a living, where they came from and why they might have moved on. Perhaps the research might unearth a famous name or notable incident. Alternatively it can reveal a fascinating glimpse into the domestic arrangements of a typical family home. Was there a room set aside in the original plan of the house for a maid of all works, housekeeper or valet? How many successive generations of one family have occupied the House? There may be interesting information concerning the land on which the house was built. What was there before? Who owned the land and why was the house built in the first place?

Historical facts are partly provided by the owners themselves, together with evidence apparent in the deeds of the house, census records and accounts by local historians. The owners can decide the level of detail in the story text. This can vary from just the name of the house and date of construction to a short biography of the building and those who have occupied it.

Reconstructing the Past

You may have grown up in a house that is now no longer standing or you might have fond memories for a building that has changed and been modernised out of all recognition. Alternatively you may simply have moved and no longer own a house which means a great deal to you.

It is possible to produce very detailed architectural drawings of how a house might have appeared in the past, simply with the help of a few existing photographs. With longstanding knowledge of architecture and an eye for proportion and design Ben Taggart can produce a drawing to suit your needs. Sets of drawings can be produced showing the various stages of evolution of a building. Every owner puts their own mark on the house in which they live, not just the decoration but often the structure of the property is altered. Extensions are built, roof lines are changed, garages are added and subsequently demolished.

Research from photographs and examination of the structure and construction methods used can yield all of the information required to create the drawings.

Here the architectural layers of Broughton Hall near Skipton in North Yorkshire are removed to reveal the Elizabethan manor house lying behind the golden Kendal stone façade.

t: 0208 766 6822
m: 07966 539 861
e: info@archistory.co.uk