Robert Smirke (architect)

Sir Robert Smirke (1781-18 April 1867) was a leading 19th century British architect.

Related Topics:
1781 - 18 April - 1867 - 19th century - British - Architect

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Smirke was the son of portrait painter Robert Smirke, and studied architecture as a pupil of classical architect John Soane in 1796, the same year he commenced his studies at the Royal Academy. He also studied and travelled in southern Europe for several years.

Related Topics:
Robert Smirke - Architecture - John Soane - 1796 - Royal Academy - Europe

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Smirke designed public buildings in the classical style, including the main block and facade of the British Museum, the east wing of Somerset House, and the Royal College of Physicians building in Trafalgar Square (now known as Canada House).

Related Topics:
British Museum - Somerset House - Royal College of Physicians - Trafalgar Square - Canada House

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His buildings outside London included the Shire Halls of Gloucester, Shrewsbury and Hereford, plus alterations to Luton Hoo house.

Related Topics:
Gloucester - Shrewsbury - Hereford - Luton Hoo

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He also designed the second incarnation of the Covent Garden Theatre, now the Royal Opera House (destroyed by fire in 1857), and the General Post Office building in St Martins-le-Grand in the City of London (built between 1825 and 1829 (demolished c. 1910).

Related Topics:
Royal Opera House - 1857 - General Post Office - City of London - 1825 - 1829 - 1910

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His domestic buildings were often in the Gothic style.

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He was knighted in 1832, and received the RIBA Gold Medal for Architecture in 1853.

Related Topics:
1832 - RIBA - 1853

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He died in Cheltenham on April 18th 1867.

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