Architect Robert Adam (1728-1792) was one of the most prominent persons of English classicism. He came from an architect family and worked with his brother (James). Adam-style was named after him, which is still very popular in the Anglo-Saxon areas.
Adam was travelling for four years throughout Europe before began to work on getting familiar with architecture and culture of other countries. He spent two years in Rome studying the ruins of the classical world. He used the ancient Greek, Roman and Etruscan architectural marks (medallion, vase, urn, vine scroll, sphynx, griffin etc.) on his buildings. Also used the style of Louis XVI. as source. In the first time, the Adam brothers got jobs only at the countryside, but later they were invited to London for several projects, practically they took part in the city-planning. Their unique decoration style was the key of their success. They paid attention not only for the outside of the buildings but the inner parts too: the elaborate plasterworks of ceilings and walls and rich classical decorations are still awe-inspiring. Furniture, carpets, lamps, fire places etc. designed by the Adam brothers were used in the interiors. They applied newly developed paints and created special color palettes: pea green, sky blue, lilac, bright pink, red-brown terracotta, lemon. Painted decoration elements were basic features of the style, e.g. swags and ribbons.
Their most well-known buildings: Edinburgh University Old College, Kedleston Hall, Kenwood House, Luton Hoo, Paxton House, Syon House etc. Their plans were published as a book. The style’s revival was in the late Victorian era.
This very classical style gives elegance but using it an inappropriate way makes the interior cluttered. It requires proficiency to be applied in the available interior, so ask for help of an interior designer.