Charles Spooner (1862-1938), Arts and Crafts Architect

Charles Spooner was an arts and crafts architect who, unusually for arts and crafts people, specialised in churches, but he also made furniture and designed a few houses (though not the lavish country houses many other so-called arts and crafts architects designed). Unlike many, he actually practiced the ideals of modesty and public service which William Morris believed should have been the norm; but this means that he is relatively unknown nowadays. Such was his modesty, not even a photograph of Spooner is known to survive. But he was a well-known figure in his day, serving on important committees and contributing to architectural journals and books.

Alec Hamilton’s pioneer study puts him on the map. The subject has been lavishly treated by the publisher, who has done the whole book in colour, allowing Spooner’s art to speak for itself. There are chapters on Spooner’s background (yes, he was a cousin of the Spooner of Spoonerisms), his churches, his war work, his houses, his furniture and the book has appendices listing all his known works, and an index. Everything is foot-noted and referenced.