22 Parkside: a modernist masterpiece
A bright yellow modernist house in south-west London, 22 Parkside in Wimbledon tells an important story about creativity, innovation and the changing face of modern Britain. That's why we're bringing this remarkable building into our care.
Why the National Trust is caring for 22 Parkside
A modern masterpiece with a national story
A bright yellow modernist house in south-west London, 22 Parkside in Wimbledon tells an important story about creativity, innovation and the changing face of modern Britain. That's why we're bringing this remarkable building into our care.
Designed by renowned architects Richard and Su Rogers for Richard's parents in the late 1960s, 22 Parkside is one of the most influential modern homes in the UK. It was a place where ideas were tested and developed before helping to shape some of the world's best-known buildings, including the Centre Pompidou in Paris and the Lloyd's building in London.
Richard regarded public access to culture - whether architecture, art, theatre, music, or design - as one of the great aspirations in life. It filled him with such joy that the public would have access to this house that was once private, a house that was a prototype for what he thought houses could be for all. I am grateful to everyone who has generously supported this project.
Protecting a pioneering place
The Rogers family have generously gifted the house to the National Trust because they want its story to be protected and shared with future generations. Their decision means this architectural landmark can become part of the nation's heritage rather than remaining a private home.
For us, caring for 22 Parkside is about more than preserving a building. It's about helping more people discover why architecture matters and how great design can shape the world around us. As one of Richard and Su Rogers' most personal projects, the house offers a unique insight into the thinking behind some of the most significant architectural ideas of the 20th century.
22 Parkside is much more than a family home. It is one of the most important buildings my father and mother created – a place where many of the ideas that would go on to influence my father's work and some of the world’s most celebrated architecture were first tested and explored. As a family, we wanted to ensure that this remarkable house would be protected, cared for and shared with future generations, rather than remaining a private asset. The National Trust brings the expertise, public purpose and long-term commitment needed to safeguard its future, while opening up its story to students, researchers and visitors.
Inspiring future generations
Importantly, this is only the beginning of the journey. We're exploring ways to open up the house and share its stories with as many people as possible. Working with local communities and partners, we'll help ensure that 22 Parkside becomes an active place of learning, creativity and inspiration.
Everything we do is guided by our commitment to care for special places for everyone, for ever. 22 Parkside represents a different kind of heritage, but one that deserves the same long-term protection and care. By bringing it into the National Trust, we're ensuring that future generations can experience a building that changed the way people think about architecture, design and modern living.
A broader story of heritage
The National Trust cares for places from many different periods of history. Alongside medieval buildings, country houses and industrial heritage sites, we also look after important examples of modern architecture, including 2 Willow Road in Hampstead and The Homewood in Surrey. Adding 22 Parkside to this collection helps us tell a broader story about Britain's heritage and the people who have shaped it.
The acquisition also supports our ambition to reach new audiences. Modern architecture can connect with people who may not see themselves reflected in more traditional heritage settings. Through visits, learning opportunities, community partnerships and digital experiences, 22 Parkside has the potential to inspire students, designers, researchers and curious visitors from across the UK and beyond.
For me, this is one of the most significant acquisitions in the National Trust’s recent history. 22 Parkside not only followed in the footsteps of some of the most iconic modern homes on earth, such as Farnsworth House by Mies Van Der Rohe (1951) and the Glass House by Philip Johnson (1948-49), it sowed the seeds of some of the most incredible, functional, modernist architecture Richard Rogers was to produce until his passing in 2021. This is one of the most significant homes in British architectural history.
Before the Centre Pompidou, there was 22 Parkside, Wimbledon
Watch our video to learn more about 22 Parkside, and why the National Trust will be caring for it for the nation.
This video is hosted by YouTube
Help bring 22 Parkside to life
The acquisition of 22 Parkside has been made possible thanks to the generosity of the Rogers family and the support of donors and funders. But there is still more to do. To conserve this remarkable building, develop engaging visitor experiences and create learning opportunities that inspire future generations, we need continued support.
Make a donation
Every donation, whatever the size, will help us care for 22 Parkside and share its stories with more people. Together, we can protect this pioneering modern home, open up access to its unique heritage and ensure its legacy of creativity and innovation continues to inspire for generations to come.
Donate today and help secure the future of 22 Parkside.
History of 22 Parkside
Built in Wimbledon in the late 1960s, 22 Parkside was designed by Richard + Su Rogers as a home for Richard Rogers’ parents. More than a family house, it became a laboratory for ideas that would help redefine British architecture. Discover its’ history.
The Homewood
One architect's vision of the future
2 Willow Road
Innovative and influential Modernist home from 1939
