"Steven Parissien has an extraordinary ability to present the complex story of buildings with both wisdom and humour; each chapter in this book is a memorable cultural encounter with place, each illuminating in different ways the shifting story of British nationhood." -- Jeremy Musson "An ingeniously personal journey through British history written with authority, flair and humour." -- Jacqueline Riding "Steven Parissien brings a fresh eye and a new perspective to Britain's architectural history. A hugely enjoyable read, both erudite and entertaining." -- Adrian Tinniswood "This book offers a surgically precise section through the nation to reveal - with great clarity - how people have lived and built in Britain during the last 2,600 years. Erudition and insights coupled with lightness of touch makes Building Britannia as entertaining as it is informative." -- Dan Cruickshank "Steven Parissien vividly recaptures the rich variety of life in ancient and historic Britain in just twenty-five buildings, getting to the heart of each structure and revealing what motivated people to create it. The range here is extraordinary, from an Iron Age hill fort to Paul McCartney's post-war family home in Liverpool.

Building Britannia is a remarkable book, full of surprises." -- Francis Pryor "Thoroughly enjoyable" --Richard Hopton, Country & Town House "An illuminating history of Britain . fascinating" -- Countryside " PRAISE FOR STEVEN PARISSIEN : 'The most stunning art books of the year' Sir Roy Strong, Sunday Express. 'An outstanding work of reference and beauty' Interiors Magazine. 'There's plenty here to fuel the petrolhead and the social historian for many miles' Literary Review. 'A read to fascinate anyone interested in the history of the industry' Daily Express. 'A beautiful, highly original book'" -- Apollo Magazine.