William Lethaby Blue Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

William Richard Lethaby was a renowned British architect and educator who lived from 1857 to 1931. He made significant contributions to the fields of architecture, design, and art education during his illustrious career.

Lethaby is best known for his role as the first principal of the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London, which is now known as the Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. He held this position from 1896 to 1911, during which time he helped establish the school as a leading institution for art and design education in the United Kingdom.

As an architect, Lethaby was a key figure in the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasized traditional craftsmanship and the use of natural materials in design and architecture. He designed several notable buildings, including the Eagle Insurance Company building in Birmingham and the Brockhampton Church in Herefordshire. Lethaby was also a prolific writer and scholar, publishing numerous books and articles on architecture, design, and art education throughout his career.

The Central School of Arts and Crafts, where Lethaby served as principal, is located on Southampton Row in the London Borough of Camden. Camden is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with many notable institutions and landmarks, such as the British Museum and the Camden Market, located within its boundaries. Lethaby’s legacy continues to inspire students and educators at the Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, which remains one of the world’s leading art and design schools to this day.