Frinton Park Estate has just been released, showcasing stunning visuals by photographer James Weston. This new publication delves into the modernist architecture and art deco heritage of the housing scheme located at Frinton On The Sea in Essex, England. The book traces the project’s history, starting back in 1936 when the South Coast Investment Company acquired 200 acres of land, guided by consultant architect Oliver Hill. It documents the completion of 25 homes—among a planned 50—designed by renowned architects including FRS Yorke, Connell, Ward and Lucas, Maxwell Fry, and Wells Coates. The ambitious development reflects the ‘Streamline Moderne’ style of the time, characterized by naval-inspired designs and sleek, white exteriors. The outcome is a remarkable collection of 20th-century homes, beautifully captured through Weston’s skilled photography.
We talk Frinton Park Estate with photographer James Weston
Wallpaper*: How did you come about the area and project? Was your shoot series the first time you visited?
James Weston: Frinton is a small seaside town not far from where I grew up. I would often go there with my parents when I was younger; I still go there now when I can.
W: What attracted you to the project?
JW: I’ve always been captivated by the stunning original houses from the 1930s in this area. Many of them possess a unique beauty that draws me in. More significantly, I’m intrigued by how we envision the future and how those visions play out in reality. My perspective isn’t one of pessimism; rather, it’s grounded in realism, contrasting idealism and fantasy.
In the context of this project, this fascination translates into a lofty vision for future living arrangements, which ultimately did not come to fruition as initially imagined.
W*: Why black and white?
JW: Good question. I’ve never seen these houses in black and white. I think it adds to an ambiguous aspect of time and place, I also love printing black-and-white in the darkroom.
While working on the project, I came across early books by Ed Ruscha like Twentysix Gasoline Stations, Every Building On The Sunset Strip, Thirtyfour Parking Lots, and Some Los Angeles Apartments. These books matched the idea I had for Frinton Park Estate. They have a DIY feel and a straightforward style, all in black and white. I also wanted the book to resemble something you might find in a school library, like an old academic textbook.
W*: Did the result match your expectations?
JW: As the photos are not of people, it’s far easier to control and anticipate the results, so yes the result is quite close to what I expected.
W*: What surprised you about this project?
JW: Just how important trees are, and what a difference they make to both a house, and a housing estate.
📅 Published on: 2025-02-17
🖋️ Author: – An expert in architectural innovation and design trends.
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Note: This article was reviewed and edited by the ArchUp editorial team to ensure accuracy and quality.
