Housing in London – Early Modern London

By Andy Wang

Introduction

The construction industry has played a significant role in the growth and development of cities throughout history, and this was particularly true during the 16th and 17th centuries in many parts of the world, including Europe. During this time, cities experienced significant population growth, leading to a need for new housing and infrastructure.

House-building was an essential component of the construction industry, and it was driven by various economic and social factors. For example, builders were motivated by the desire to meet the growing demand for housing, while architects and craftsmen were motivated by the desire to create unique and innovative designs that reflected the social status and prestige of their clients.

The construction industry during this period was highly dynamic and diverse, with builders, architects, and craftsmen working collaboratively and competitively to create new building techniques and materials. This led to the development of various architectural styles that were unique to different regions.

Understanding the development of the house-building sector during the 16th and 17th centuries provides insight into the economic and social history of many cities around the world, highlighting the critical role that the construction industry has played in shaping urban landscapes.

Process

1. Identifying

Table 2: Diverse Occupations of Offenders

Table 3: Occupation and residence of builders, type of unit and where located as
cited in Certificates of Offending Houses, 1618-19

Data Visualization

Compare and Contrast

Reference

BAER, WILLIAM C. “The House-Building Sector of London’s Economy, 1550–1650.” Urban History, vol. 39, no. 3, 2012, pp. 409–30. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/26398151. Accessed 1 Apr. 2023.