"Are architects the best furniture designers? The author, Deputy Keeper of the RIBA Drawings Collection, presents an impressive selection of designs by architects from the 17th to the 20th century to support her case that they are. The drawings range from the earliest known surviving design (for a bed by John Smythson) to Wells Coates' plan for a minimal flat. Examples include William Kent's State barge for Frederick, Prince of Wales, an elephant lamp for an Indian nabob, garden seats for Kensington Palace and a cocktail cabinet for the actress Evelyn Laye"--Back cover.