The life and architectural works of William Henman, F.R.I.B.A.

Abstract

This thesis examines the career of the architect William Henman, F.R.1.B.A. (1846-1917) whose practice extended from 1871 until 1912. The introduction during this time of reinforced concrete and of mechanical services powered by electrical inventions made possible formal and stylistic changes in the design of large buildings. Henman's awareness of the potentiality of these innovations and his contribution as an inventor in these fields is demonstrated. His work as a pioneer architect, as designer of the Belfast Royal Victoria Hospital (1903) incorporating a controlled interior environment considered to be the first air-conditioned building to be constructed, is examined, together with the theories concerning ventilation and hospital design which moulded his design philosophy. Henman's participation in contemporary social experiments such as the Garden City Movement, town planning schemes, workmen's housing projects, and the Cottage Hospital Movement are included, and case studies of his principal civic buildings which reflect his practice methods and indicate stylistic changes during his career are added.