After completing his architectural apprenticeship, Herbert began working for Ernest George and Harold Peto. With them from 1882 - 1887, he then opened his own office in Gravesend in 1890. Two years later, his colonial adventures began when he embarked for South Africa to seek his fortune.
Travels across the Empire
After receiving the patronage of Cecil Rhodes, Prime Minister of the Cape colony and leading imperialist, he began his work in South Africa. He remained here for the next 20 years, designing many public and religious buildings, as well as private houses.
In 1912, Sir Herbert joined Edward Lutyens in India, where they began to work on the government buildings in New Delhi. He was to design the Secretariat buildings on Saisina Hill, flanking Lutyen's Viceroy's House and Parliament House.
The 'Bakerloo' affair
A row developed between Baker and Lutyens when it became clear that the Baker's design, with its steep gradient for the central axis, obscured the view towards Lutyen's buildings. The 'Bakerloo' affair soured relations between the two architects for the next two decades.
We will remember them...
After Delhi, Sir Herbert worked for the Imperial War Graves Commission. His designs included the huge cemetery at Tyne Cot, Belgium; the Delville Wood South African Memorial and Neuve Chapelle Indian War Memorial, both in France. He also designed the highly regarded War Memorial Cloister at Winchester College (1922 - 24).