We are delighted to welcome architectural historian Clive Aslet here this evening to discuss his new book
King Charles III: 40 Years of Architecture
King Charles III's affection for architecture is well-known, but the extent of his engagement has never been fully presented to the public. This is the first book to draw together the many threads, from the 'carbuncle' speech, made at Hampton Court in 1984, until his accession to the throne. He has created model settlements such as Poundbury through the Duchy of Cornwall, Dumfries House in East Ayrshire has been made a beacon of social regeneration, and his educational initiatives have changed lives.
The four decades of the King's commitment to architecture have coincided with Clive Aslet's career as a journalist, during which he has followed the story and often written about it, not least during the 13 years for which he was editor of Country Life. “King Charles III: 40 Years of Architecture” is based on new research including many interviews with the architects, critics, advisors and academics who worked with the (then) Prince of Wales on his far-reaching endeavours.
Clive will be in conversation with Ben Pentreath, historian and author of a number of books including “English Houses” and, coming later this year, “English Decoration: Timeless Inspiration for the Contemporary Home”.
We hope you will be able to join us for what promises to be a scintillating evening – all welcome!
(Mark Boxer’s elegant caricature of 1981 shows the then Prince of Wales, shortly after he acquired Highgrove House in Gloucestershire. The King’s public engagement with architecture would begin three years later.© Estate of Mark Boxer)
