The Center for Palladian Studies is interested in the publication and promotion of books about Palladio and Palladian influences in America.

In addition to the books listed below, CPSA has engaged a writer to work on the history of the building of the Barboursville plantation home of Virginia Governor James Barbour (1745-1842).  We have received generous support from an individual CPSA member as well as Barboursville Vineyards.

Birth of a Virginia Plantation House: The Design and Building of Bremo by Peter Hodson, with an essay by Calder Loth, architectural historian, has been reissued by CPSA and is available at a special discount to CPSA members.  First published in 2012, the book had sold out, thus requiring this second printing.

An essential reference for scholars and a fascinating addition to any library of American architecture, history or culture, the book examines the origins of one of America’s most distinctive Palladian-style houses and tells the story of how the American nation began to advance its ideas about architecture and design.

The 1815–1820 house is situated above the James River in Virginia not far from Charlottesville. Using General John Hartwell Cocke’s diary, correspondence, invoices and other documents, author Hodson demonstrates the complexity of such a construction project and the impact it had on Cocke, his family, and the craftsmen involved.

Calder Loth, editor of the volume and CPSA vice-president, unlocks the pattern book origins of many of Bremo’s interior motifs, thus demonstrating the central role played by one of America’s pioneering architectural pattern books.

Cost for the book will be $30 including tax and shipping for members and $35 for nonmembers.  It can be ordered through PayPal or by sending a check to CPSA, PO Box 4754, Charlottesville, VA 22905.  (5/17/2020)

2000. Hardcover, 317 pages.

Douglas Lewis’ beautiful tabletop book, The Drawings of Palladio, is available to new and renewing members free of charge.
$40 nonmembers plus $5 postage
Send check to CPSA, PO Box 4754, Charlottesville, VA 22905