As anyone who runs their own business can tell you, one of the few upsides is the freedom (within reason). So, one Wednesday a few weeks ago, I used that limited freedom to visit a house that had been on my mind for some time: Sandycombe Lodge, the one time home of J.W.Turner. I'd been meaning to go since speaking to Reuben Higgins, a designer at Ben Pentreath, who told me it was one of his favourite house museums. That conversation took place four years ago. Limited freedom, indeed. So, although I was a little late, the suburb of Twickenham greeted me very politely.
In May 1807, Turner purchased a two-acre plot of land in Twickenham, and by 1810, his sketchbooks were filled with plans for his modest villa—a reflection of the frustrated ambitions of a one-time hopeful architect. Who knows what monumental structures he might have created had Thomas Hardwick not advised him to continue his pursuit of art? But I think we can all be grateful that he heeded that advice. But even the greatest artists in the world must have a hobby, and lucky for us, Turner's turned into Sandycombe Lodge.
The construction of Sandycombe Lodge was completed in 1813, and while modest in scale, it remains a small gem of Regency architecture. The villa reflects the influence of Turner's close friend, Sir John Soane. The two shared a passion not only for architecture but also for fishing, with Turner frequently visiting Soane at his retreats, such as Pitzhanger Manor in Ealing and Lincoln's Inn Fields, now home to the Soane Museum. Those visits clearly left a lasting impression, as the Soanian influence can be seen throughout Sandycombe Lodge.
Sandycombe Lodge, however, was much more than just a project for Turner—it was a home. He lived there with his father, William Turner, affectionately known as "Old Dad," who played a key role in his son's daily life. After retiring from his work as a barber, Old Dad moved in with Turner, taking on household duties and even helping mix the artist's paints. Their relationship was close, and Sandycombe Lodge became a place where the two could live, away from the pressures of London life.
While not grand, the house's structure was designed with Turner's unique vision. The rooms are intimate yet elegant, and the large windows offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape—a testament to Turner's love for nature. Today, Sandycombe Lodge stands as a tribute to Turner's quieter, domestic side, offering visitors the chance to step into the world of one of Britain's greatest artists and appreciate both his artistic legacy and the personal life he shared with his beloved father.
Turner’s House Trust deserves a word of thanks for its dedication and vision, which have ensured that Sandycombe Lodge remains a preserved treasure. Through their tireless efforts, the lodge underwent a meticulous restoration between 2016 and 2017, bringing Turner’s beloved home back to its original splendour.
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