The modern British: an architectural account of The Manser Practice

Michael Manser, and later his son Jonathan, have overseen the design of a clutch of elegant and original houses, building on the spirit of post-war American modernism. Pictured from the book: Golden Grove, Surrey, 1960. Michael Manser designed this house in the centre of an orchard as a home for his young family. Photography courtesy of The Manser Practice

Capel Manor House, Kent, 1971. The property was designed to give a sense of openness with panoramic views of the countryside. Photography courtesy of The Manser Practice

Yachtsman's House, Isle of Wight, 2014; the house was awarded 'One-Off Home of the Year' at the 2014 Sunday Times British Home Awards. Photography: Hufton+Crow

Armstrong House, Surrey, 1970. This house is designed in a U-shape around a south facing courtyard garden. Photography: Richard Einzig

Left: Welch House, Isle of Wight, 2009 – a two-storey box balanced on a teardrop shaped concrete tube fixed to the hillside. Photography: Morley von Sternberg. Right: Armstrong House, Surrey, 1970. Photography: Richard Einzig