During the 1770s a new more severe neo-classical style was becoming fashionable. Wood pioneered this new style in buildings such as the Hot Bath (built using the Doric order), the Royal Crescent and the Bath Assembly Rooms. These buildings contrasted with the more decorated and embellished style preferred by his father. Whilst John Wood the Elder's Circus includes superimposed orders and a detailed frieze, the Royal Crescent – designed by his son - has a single order and plain decoration throughout.