This is the definitive book on Philip Webb (1831–1915), a key figure in the Arts and Crafts movement and a leading member of the Pre–Raphaelite circle, who has since emerged as one of the most important architects of the nineteenth century. It provides a comprehensive account of Webb’s design philosophy, his architectural work and his influence, while also telling his fascinating life story. Combining architectural history and biography, the compelling narrative gives a full picture of the character of this extraordinary man – a man known for his absolute integrity, who shunned publicity but nevertheless attracted clients of high status and came to be one of the most significant architectural innovators of his age. Interspersed with vivid descriptions of Webb’s buildings, it covers his relationships with his clients, contractors and artistic contemporaries. These include his close friends in the Arts and Crafts movement, William Morris, Edward Burne–Jones, and Dante Gabriel...