telephone box

architecture

Also known as: telephone booth

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

A telephone box, also known as a phone box or call box, is a small, enclosed structure containing a public telephone. Primarily a British term, these booths were common for making calls outside the home. The first known use of the term "telephone box" dates back to 1880. They served as a convenient and accessible way for people to make calls, especially for reporting emergencies.123

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Sir Giles Gilbert Scott
…of the iconic red public telephone boxes (booths). The first of these classical models appeared in 1924; the design was simplified in 1936. Both models were probably inspired by the tomb Sir John Soane built for himself in 1816.
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…of the iconic red public telephone boxes (booths). The first of these classical models appeared in 1924; the design was simplified in 1936. Both models were probably inspired by the tomb Sir John Soane built for himself in 1816.
Read More