If I remember the story correctly, the Tannoy designs originated at a time (after WWII) when you wouldn't go to a shop and buy ready made speakers, but would buy drivers and order (or make yourself) a cabinet to put them in along with xovers etc. I think "current" Tannoy designs, reflect that period, as well as the taste of the moneyed Japanese audiophiles who for many years were almost the only people who purchased these things...

To be fair, the "small" Tannoys such as the Stirling or Sandringham do not look too good to my eyes. The big ones, though, are stunning. The Autograph is really rather elegant, and the Utopia people even do a Jr. version. They also make Altec style "utility" cabs, which are as plain and simple as you could wish for.

edited for correct names of small Tannoys.