MELANIE BACKE-HANSEN is a House Historian and writes a regularly for various magazines and newspapers. She has also featured on numerous TV and radio programmes. She lives in London.
A book that goes out of its way to prove that every house has a story to tell, and what stories. A surprising and often inspiring journey into the past through some of Britain's most fascinating homes. -- Professor David Olusoga A fascinating and beautifully detailed guide to exploring house history, in this exquisitely illustrated book, Mel uncovers wonderful houses, their histories and fascinating residents from Eleanor Rathbone to Ian Fleming. -- Professor Kate Williams A wonderful combination of inspiring stories and practical advice that makes you want to research the history of your own house. -- Dr Nick Barratt Melanie Backe-Hansen's book is an indispensable guide to researching the history of your home. Case studies from her own house histories take the reader through the process step-by-step, illuminating not only changes in the architecture and interiors of ordinary and extraordinary houses through time but also shedding light on the lives of a wide range of occupants from public figures to working men and women. -- Professor Deborah Sugg Ryan