Paine, James (c. 1716–1789)

English architect, entrusted at the age of 19 with the design and building of an enormous mansion, Nostell Priory. Other work in his huge subsequent practice included Richmond Bridge (1774–7), Brocket Hall, Hertfordshire (1760–75), the central portion of Kedleston Hall, Derby (begun 1757), and Wardour Castle, Dorset (1770–76).

Paine is believed to have been a student at the St Martins Lane Academy in London, where he came into contact with the greatest artists, designers, and architects of the period, including the architect Isaac Ware (died 1766).