Roger Morris (1695–1749) facts for kids
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Roger Morris (born April 19, 1695 – died January 31, 1749) was a talented English architect. He became well-known through his work with another architect, Colen Campbell. This led him to work closely with Henry Herbert, 9th Earl of Pembroke, a nobleman who loved architecture. Together, they created many important buildings.
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Roger Morris: A Master Architect
Roger Morris was born in London, England. He started his career with hands-on training as a bricklayer. By 1724, he was building his own house in Oxford Street, London. Just a few years later, by 1730, he built a larger home for himself. People then started calling him a 'gentleman', which showed his rising status.
Morris also made money by building houses to sell. This is called "speculative building." He was very successful at this in London. This success helped him become a respected architect.
Working with Important People
Roger Morris's career grew because he worked with influential people.
- He first worked with Sir Andrew Fountaine. Sir Andrew was an expert in art and architecture.
- Morris then worked as an assistant to Colen Campbell. This was at places like Studley Royal in Yorkshire.
- His most important partnership was with Henry Herbert, 9th Earl of Pembroke. Lord Pembroke was known as an "architect earl" because of his love for design.
Together, Morris and Lord Pembroke designed several famous buildings:
- Marble Hill House (1724–1729): This house was built for Henrietta Howard, Countess of Suffolk.
- White Lodge, Richmond Park (1727–1728): This lodge is located in a famous park.
- After traveling to Italy, Morris finished the inside of Sir John Vanbrugh's Eastbury House (1733–1738).
- He also designed a house in Hammersmith for George Bubb Dodington.
- Morris built the Column of Victory at Blenheim Palace (1730). This was for the Duchess of Marlborough.
- He designed Wimbledon House (1732–1733) for the same Duchess.
- The beautiful Palladian Bridge at Wilton House (1736–1737) was also his work.
- He worked on the look of Apethorpe Palace.
- It is thought he designed Westcombe House in Blackheath. Lord Pembroke later owned this house.
Lord Pembroke thought highly of Morris. In 1734, he gave Morris a silver cup as a sign of his respect.
Other Notable Projects
Roger Morris also designed other important buildings on his own:
- Clearwell Castle in Gloucestershire (1727): This castle is special because it was one of the first to be built in the Gothic Revival style. This style made new buildings look like old castles.
- Combe Bank in Kent: Morris designed this building in the mid-1700s.
- He also created a design for the Porter's Lodge at Wilton House around 1733.
- Morris is also believed to have worked on Lydiard Park in Wiltshire in the 1740s.
Working for the Crown
Because of his skills and the support of his powerful friends, Roger Morris got a job in the Office of Works. This office was in charge of all building designs for the King or Queen.
- In 1727, a new job was created just for him: Clerk of the Works at Richmond New Park Lodge. He was already building there.
- In 1734, he became the Master Carpenter to the Office of Ordnance. This was a very important job. He oversaw work at places like the Royal Arsenal, Woolwich.
- He was also appointed as the Surveyor to the Mint. This meant he oversaw the buildings where money was made.
Morris's Unique Style
Roger Morris was known for his own unique style, especially in his Palladian villas. Palladian architecture was a popular style based on ancient Roman and Greek temples.
His independent designs were not just copies of other architects' work. Experts say his villas were "strikingly original." For example, Carné's Seat at Goodwood House shows his special touch on temple-like buildings.
Images for kids
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The Blenheim Column of Victory, designed by Roger Morris.
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The White Lodge in Richmond Park, another of Morris's designs.
