Robert Adam was one of the greatest architects and interior designers of Georgian Britain. He introduced and popularized design based on his study of the ruins of ancient Rome, using ancient classical ornaments, including low relief plasterwork on ceilings and walls; carved and gilded classical motifs on furniture; and chimney pieces which incorporated classical masks, wreaths, and tributes. He also knew how to entice wealthy patrons into creating ambitious projects which evoked the buildings of the ancient world, and yet worked for the most fashionable of parties, and for family life. He created memorable interiors by his use of distinctive colors such as pink, green, lilac, and straw, within his carefully-planned dining rooms and drawing rooms, libraries and saloons, as well as breath-taking statue galleries. Adam’s work in British country houses resulted in some of the most memorable social spaces in history, which also expressed the finest craftsmanship and highlighted the homeowner’s social status and fashionable taste. Architectural historian, broadcaster, and author Jeremy Musson will illustrate and discuss country house interiors designed or remodeled by Robert Adam such as Kedleston Hall, Osterley Park, Newby Hall, Syon House, and Saltram.

Will Palin London

Jeremy Musson, LLB Hons, M.Phil, FSA, is an architectural historian and heritage consultant. He worked for the Victorian Society and the National Trust before joining Country Life, in 1995, where he was Architectural Editor in 1998-2007. He continues to contribute articles to Country Life; he is the author of several books and co-wrote and presented BBC 2’s The Curious House Guest series. A Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries, and an affiliate lecturer at Cambridge University’s department of architecture, he is also chairman of the Historic Houses Foundation. As a heritage consultant since 2007, he has worked on major historic sites including St Paul’s Cathedral, Ickworth Park, Suffolk and Hardwick Hall, Derbyshire.

In-Person: Lecture will start at 6:30 p.m. ET with reception preceding at 6:00 p.m.

Location: The General Mechanics Library, 20 W. 44th Street, New York NY 10036

Tickets: $35 Members; $45 Non-members

Or call 212-480-2889 x200