In the beginning there was only darkness...
AugustusPugin
Pugin After Dark, a celebration of
Victorian Gothic Architect
Pugin After Dark celebrates the life and work of AWN Pugin in new, imaginative, creative and inspiring ways. In doing so, we aim to not only raise his profile but also bring his architecture to new and diverse audiences, ensuring that his legacy and work are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
"Everyone is welcome to get involved with Pugin After Dark, whether you are a writer, artist, photographer, musician, historian or even just someone that simply appreciates the beauty of his work"
We want to make Pugin's work accessible to all and endeavour to create a range of ways to do so from informative and entertaining talks & workshops to our current collaborative artwork, The Tile Project which you can also participate in online.
Over time, we will add as many places and elements to this resource as we can but we also very much encourage you to send in your own submissions as well as articles to our blog. To submit a blog article or find out how to add an place to the resource please contact us here.
Future Plans & Projects
As well as in person activities and events we also want to build a comprehensive online resource of Pugin’s work, including details of his buildings, places and elements. This will not only be for those with a general interest but also to provide access for anyone without the ability to travel or see these places in person.
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Pugin After Dark Festival – 28th February -1st March 2026
We are in the process of applying for funding to hold a festival in Alton, Staffordshire which will include talks, exhibitions, walks and potential access to some of his buildings within the village.
If you are a group, organisation and or individual who would like to take part, contribute to the planning, have any suggestions or if you would simply like to find out more, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Pugin’s Staffordshire colouring book - A colouring book suitable for both adults and children detailing some of his most famous buildings in the county with brief histories and insights to each.
Already keen to get colouring? We have a number of colouring sheets to download for free including the tiles for the Pugin Tile project available here.
Alton Pugin Trail & Walk – A trail taking visitors around Alton and detailing Pugin’s work and hidden gems within this history rich village.
Est. 1stMarch 2021
Back in 2021, I created and produced a roughly shot short film in celebration of Augustus Pugin’s 209th birthday, where I explored his glorious Gothic buildings in Alton, Staffordshire by moonlight. Little did I know then that this video would be the beginning of so many wonderful things and also give Pugin After Dark its name.
"Though we may not be seen in the dark, it is in the night where we will see who we really are"
I have always had a love of the night, enjoying how it distorts and changes the perceptions of our daylight experiences.
When darkness descends, shadows become elongated, facades darken, and glass glitters in the moonlight. There is a certain magic that only comes with nightfall.
It is these altered perceptions that were the initial concept of the Pugin After Dark project. Not only was the intention to reveal a different side to his magnificent buildings, but also to discover and celebrate his work in new and alternative ways.
Since I made my initial short film, the project has steadily branched out and grown, reaching so many more people and audiences than I could have ever of imagined. I have been incredibly touched by the passion and enthusiasm everyone has shown for not only the project but also their keenness to learn more about Pugin’s life and work. As the project expands further, I hope it continues to inspire others and encourage creativity.
Louie Young