Architecture

• Hampton court was one of 20 royal residences inherited by Elizabeth
• She gave away 7 royal residences and spent an average of £4000 a year maintaining the rest
• Many new stately homes were built, showing that the owners were cultured and wealthy
• Peace and prosperity meant that architects could focus on the looks and comfort of a house, not the security of the owner
• Designs were often symmetrical
• Chimneys were a show of wealth, even if they didn’t lead to a fireplace
• Rooms were accessible by a great staircase
• Great houses that reflected the wealth and sophistication of the owner could secure the owner a place at court
• Entertaining the queen could be financially ruinous
• Houses were made of brick or stone
• Drawbridges were popular
• Families had more privacy
• Fireplaces grew in popularity