Are you ready to step inside the world of period homes? To unlock the secrets of the iconic buildings we see throughout the cities, towns and villages of Britain? Then this is the book for you.

Period homes are all around us. Not only are they charming homes for those lucky enough to live in them, but they also give the community in which they're set a distinguished character and a link with the past. Yet sometimes it's hard to know exactly which features to look at in order to date these buildings. Or what to look for if you need to replace an original fitting.

This book aims to help the reader recognise the common architectural styles and original features from each period, whether they just want to find out more about a particular property, or are trying to restore one. If you're in the middle of a renovation, for example, and you want to know which original window style you should be installing, you'll find it here.

All styles and periods are covered - from graceful Regency terraces with elegant iron balconies and muscular Victorian houses with colourful stained glass, to Edwardian homes with white patterned timber work, and stylish 1930s semis with curved suntrap windows.

From glasswork and doors to fireplaces and floors (plus everything in between) this is a treasure trove of information about the British period homes we love.