1865 – Rejected design for Ryde Church Competition

The Building News published this image with the almost harsh descriptor of “Rejected” under it, but as their text explains, it seems that the writer preferred this design.

The other exterior design we give (by Messrs. Driver and Payne) shows a very dissimilar treatment, characterised by a strong continental touch and a severe verticality of outline, that contrasts rather piquantly with the effect of studied prettiness in Mr. Peachey’s design — a class of effect, be it observed, infinitely more inviting and pleasing to the popular taste, and perhaps to this the accepted design owed its success. We much prefer, however, the stately simplicity of the rejected design, both in plan and general composition. The tower is nicely positioned, uniting and concentrating the masses, and serving usefully as a valuable adjunct internally. Finished with a circular apse, lighted by lofty lancets, the whole effect is pleasing ; but the tower, terminated by a well-designed composition, is rather overwrought for its severely plain substructure, a fault of the school.
The Building News, June 5 1865