James Adam

Architect

1732 – 1794

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Who was James Adam?

James Adam was a Scottish architect and furniture designer, but was often overshadowed by his older brother and business partner, Robert Adam. They were sons of architect William Adam.

In 1755 James worked on Gunsgreen House in the Berwickshire town of Eyemouth.

In 1758, Robert, James, and their younger brother William Adam started their business in London, focusing on designing complete schemes for the decoration and furnishing of houses. Palladian design was popular, but Robert had evolved a new, more flexible style incorporating elements of classic Roman design alongside influences from Greek, Byzantine and Baroque styles. The Adam brothers’ success can also be attributed to a desire to design everything down to the smallest detail, ensuring a sense of unity in their designs.

He then followed in Robert's footsteps by undertaking the Grand Tour, leaving in May 1760 to October 1763, when he arrive back in London.

James succeeded Robert as Architect of the King’s Works in 1768 just before work on the brothers' Adelphi project almost bankrupted the firm.

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Born
Jul 21, 1732
United Kingdom
Parents
Siblings
Profession
Lived in
  • Albemarle Street
    ( - 1794/10/29)
Died
Oct 20, 1794
Albemarle Street

Submitted
on July 23, 2013

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