George John Skipper (1856–1948) was a leading Norwich based architect of the late Victorian and Edwardian period.[1] Writer and poet, John Betjeman gave this description of him "he is altogether remarkable and original. He is to Norwich rather what Gaudi was to Barcelona" [2]
Skipper was born in the Norfolk market town of East Dereham. He trained as an architect in London before returning to work in his father's firm of builders in Norwich. After setting up his own business in 1879 he was commissioned to design the town hall at Cromer and subsequently several seaside hotels in the town. Much of his best work can be seen in Norwich, which date from the turn of the 19th century. At this time Skipper, who along with his rival Edward Boardman dominated building in the city. His own office which was located in London Street is now part of the Jarrolds departmental store, the red brick facade features scenes of architects and builders and is finished in a local type of terracotta called Cosseyware, made at Costessey (pronounced "Cossey") near Norwich by the firm of Guntons.[3] In 1899 he designed the Arts and Crafts style Royal Arcade in the city.[4] His design for the Norwich Union headquarters located in Surrey Street was completed in 1903–04. The building features the noted Marble Hall.[5]
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This list includes many of his best known works
Norwich
Norfolk
Cromer
Suffolk