See how Ickenham’s Swakeleys House changed between 1890 and 2024. Drag the slider to compare the historic photograph with the modern view.
Swakeleys House, located in Ickenham, is an impressive example of architectural evolution, showcasing a blend of Jacobean and Classical styles. Constructed in 1638 for Sir Edmund Wright, the mansion served not only as a residence but also as a statement of prestige for the affluent merchant and future Lord Mayor of London. The distinctive H-shaped layout, coupled with ornate Dutch gables, highlights the elaborate craftsmanship of the period. The interiors of Swakeleys House further reflect the wealth and social standing of its original owner, making it a significant landmark in the region’s architectural heritage.
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## Swakeleys House
In 1629, Sir Edmund Wright, a prosperous London merchant, acquired the Swakeleys estate and commissioned the construction of Swakeleys House, completed in 1638. Designed in the Artisan Mannerist style, the mansion features an H-shaped layout with distinctive Dutch gables, reflecting a blend of Jacobean and classical architectural elements. Samuel Pepys, the renowned diarist, visited the house twice in 1665, describing it as "a very pleasant place." Over the centuries, Swakeleys House has undergone various changes, including serving as offices and hosting the biennial Ickenham Festival. In 2014, planning permission was granted to convert the house into a single large residence. (en.wikipedia.org)
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