The impressive sight that greets visitors today is an original redbrick Tudor house, transformed and remodelled by Robert Adam between 1760-1780 for a wealthy banking family, the Childs.
Sir Thomas Gresham, commercial agent and advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, built the house in 1576. It was built square, with four towers within the central courtyard and, like today, was on three floors. Of the buildings that once surrounded it in 746 acres, including one of the earliest paper mills in Britain, only the Stable Block survives.
The house was acquired by Sir Francis Child in 1713. A self-made man who rose from apprentice to owner of a firm of goldsmiths and who married the boss's daughter, it was the perfect symbol and outlet for his new status and prosperity. Over two generations, the family grew more and more wealthy and from 1761, when Osterley Park became their main home, Sir Francis and then his brother Robert set about turning the house into 'the palace of palaces'.
Robert Adam was the most fashionable architect in London. It is largely his work that can be seen in the rooms and contents today, with his vast entrance portico making a particularly grand statement of classical refinement. The stunning interiors are, in fact, one of the most complete surviving examples of his craft, with beautiful plasterwork, fine carpets and exquisite furniture, all designed by Adam specifically for Osterley Park House.
By the beginning of 19th century, Osterley was no longer a main residence and, apart from a few brief periods of occupation, would not be again. Now preserved and maintained by the National Trust, the house remains, in essence and detail, much as it was in middle of the 18th century.
A full guidebook is available to purchase at the property.
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