Stephen Dykes Bower

Stephen Dykes Bower
Born(1903-04-18)18 April 1903
Died11 November 1994(1994-11-11) (aged 91)
Alma materUniversity of Oxford; Architectural Association School of Architecture
OccupationArchitect
Memorial to Dykes bower at St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds

Stephen Ernest Dykes Bower (18 April 1903 – 11 November 1994) was a British church architect and Gothic Revival designer best known for his work at Westminster Abbey, Bury St Edmunds Cathedral and the Chapel at Lancing College.[1] As an architect he was a devoted and determined champion of the Gothic Revival style through its most unpopular years. He rejected modernism and continued traditions from the late Victorian period, emphasising fine detail, craftsmanship and bright colour.[2]

Early life and education

Dykes Bower was born in Gloucester as one of four brothers, including John Dykes Bower, later the organist at St Paul's Cathedral. Stephen was educated as organ scholar at Merton College, Oxford[3] and at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London.[1] He set up his own practice in 1931, focusing on church building and restoration.[1]

Surveyor of the Fabric

From 1951 to 1973, Dykes Bower was the official Surveyor of the Fabric of Westminster Abbey; in charge of restoring, repairing, and maintaining the interior. Restoration work included the tombs, Pearson-designed organ cases, Blore-designed pulpitum, choir stalls, Scott-designed reredos, vestments, ornaments etc.[4]

Death

Dykes Bower died unmarried in November 1994, and his ashes were interred in the Islip chapel of Westminster Abbey on 12 June 1995. His memorial stone of Purbeck marble is situated next to Sir Charles Peers, his predecessor as Surveyor of the Fabric.[5]

Major works

Other works

[7]

References

  1. ^ a b c d e Richards, James (14 November 1994). "Stephen Dykes Bower". The Times. News International.
  2. ^ a b c d e f g Symondson, Anthony (2011). Stephen Dykes Bower. London: RIBA Publishing.[page needed]
  3. ^ Levens, R.G.C., ed. (1964). Merton College Register 1900-1964. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. p. 135.
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Rome, Alan (1995). "Stephen Dykes Bower". Churchscape (14).[page needed]
  5. ^ "Stephen Dykes Bower". Westminster Abbey.
  6. ^ "St Elvan's Church, Foundry Town, Aberdare". Coflein. 25 November 2014. Retrieved 7 October 2024.
  7. ^ Reynolds, C. (2019). Surveyors of the Fabric of Westminster Abbey 1906-1973. Reports and letters. Boydell & Brewer. p. 415. ISBN 978-1-78327-420-8.