Many buildings erected during the Victorian age had no precedents, such as railway stations, large hotels and factories. New structures had to be planned from first principles and architectural styles were adapted, representing the Victorians' dual concern with aesthetics and practicality. This book is a celebration of the great variety found in Victorian architecture, and examines in detail the main stylistic themes of the age - Gothic Revival, Classical, Romanesque, Italianate and free styles. The author argues that Victorian buildings are very much a product of their own age and cannot be confused with those of earlier periods. The author's other books include The Victorian Celebration of Death, City of London Pubs: a Practical and Historical Guide, Victorian Architecture: its Practical Aspects and English Architecture: an Illustrated Glossary.