In this special bonus episode of Home in Progress, Dan Hansen explores one of the most dramatic and transformative moments in architectural history—the 1834 fire that destroyed London’s Palace of Westminster.

What began as the simple burning of outdated tally sticks—wooden accounting tools used by the British Treasury—ended with a blaze that consumed centuries of political history. But from the ashes rose a new vision for British architecture.

Dan unpacks the story of how two remarkable architects—Charles Barry, the classical designer, and Augustus Pugin, the passionate Gothic revivalist—came together to rebuild Parliament and, in doing so, shaped the architectural identity of an entire age. Their work didn’t just redefine the skyline of London; it established the moral and aesthetic principles that would define the Victorian era.

The episode also examines Pugin’s belief that beauty and morality are intertwined—that good design could uplift hearts, civilize minds, and make daily life richer. It’s a story about craftsmanship, faith, vision—and how even tragedy can lay the foundation for beauty.

Episode Timeline

00:00 — Introduction and Recap

01:39 — The Fire at the Palace of Westminster

02:02 — The History and Significance of Tally Sticks

04:55 — The Aftermath of the Fire

10:51 — The Architectural Partnership of Barry and Pugin

21:23 — The Legacy of Victorian Architecture

25:54 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts