Beyond the powerhouse: understanding the country house in the twenty-first century

Abstract

Contrary to expectations, the country house has survived into the twenty-first century, and in its quiet way is flourishing. To understand how it has survived the loss of its traditional role as ‘powerhouse’, the home of a dominant landed elite, it is important to appreciate that this political aspect of the country house was only one role that the country house fulfilled. By studying the other roles played by the country house, including villa, sporting lodge and family shrine, we not only gain a broader understanding of the country house's history but also of its future.