ABSTRACT
The term 'architect' was introduced into printed English by John Shute in 1563. Compared to practices on the Continent, this was relatively late, and reflected the continuing strength of the mediaeval organization of architectural practice in Britain. Instead, building was directed by individual master workmen, mainly masons, bricklayers or carpenters, who had served an apprenticeship of seven years, then worked as journeymen, and finally became master craftsmen. The City Companies monopolized the building trade until the Great Fire of 1666, when in order to attract a greater work-force Parliament lifted the restrictions against foreigners working in the City. The intellectual authorship, and degree of control, by the supervisor of the building was limited as well because highly experienced craftsmen often executed parts of the work without supervision. This chapter reflects the organization of building in Britain, its practical aspects, the changing role of the architect and the political constraints on it.
