The Vernacular Workshop

This research report examines the material evidence for the historical development, architectural characteristics and diverse uses of vernacular workshops. Up to the mid-19th century a large proportion of industrial output was not produced in the large, impressive buildings associated with the famous industrialists - but in small buildings built in local architectural styles that blended into the environment. The chapters of this volume look at the vernacular workshop as both a building type and as a workplace. They also analyse the significance of workshops for the industrial economy and processes of the 18th and 19th centuries, and present the findings of recording programmes carried out to document and evaluate the physical remains. The distinctive styles of particular industries and regions are highlighted by the case studies. This volume will be of interest to buildings historians and archaeologists, industrial archaeologists and social and economic historians, as well as planners and conservation officers.