"This book explores the evolution of country house plans throughout Britain and Ireland, from medieval times to the eighteenth century. With photographs and detailed architectural plans of each of the houses under discussion, the book presents a whole range of new insights into how these homes were designed and what their varied designs tell us about the lives of their residents." "Starting with fortified medieval tower houses, the book traces patterns that developed and sometimes repeated in country house design over the centuries. It discusses who slept in the bedchambers, where food was prepared, how rooms were arranged for official and private activities, what towers signified, and more. The volume offers a rare tour of country houses for scholar and general reader alike."--Jacket.