Leighton House Holland Park

Leighton House

Artistic Gem: Leighton House

Leighton House is a historic house museum located in Holland Park, Kensington, London. It was the former home and studio of the prominent Victorian artist, Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-1896). Built between 1864 and 1895, the house is renowned for its stunning Orientalist design and lavish interiors, which reflect Leighton's passion for art, culture, and exotic aesthetics.

It is a companion museum with nearby Sambourne House (aka 18 Stafford Terrace), the former home of Punch magazine illustrator Edward Linley Sambourne (1844-1910).

View from Leighton House. — View from the house © Hiro Taniguchi

History

The history of Leighton House begins in 1864 when Leighton, then a successful painter, acquired a small house on the site. Over the next three decades, he expanded and transformed the building into a grand residence and artistic retreat. Leighton worked closely with the architect George Aitchison, a friend and collaborator, to bring his vision to life.

The house became a hub for the artistic and cultural elite of Victorian London. Lord Leighton hosted many social gatherings and artistic salons, inviting influential figures from the art world to his home. The house was also frequently used as a backdrop for Leighton's own works of art, serving as a source of inspiration for many of his paintings.

In 1896, shortly after Leighton's death, the house was purchased by the London County Council. Since 1929, it has been open to the public as a museum and gallery, showcasing both Leighton's works and temporary exhibitions. Visitors can explore the house and experience the unique blend of Victorian and Oriental design that defines the property.

Exterior of the building. — Exterior of the building © Hiro Taniguchi

Design

The design of Leighton House was heavily inspired by the art and architecture of the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Leighton drew inspiration from his extensive travels to places like Spain, North Africa, and the Middle East, incorporating elements of Islamic and Moorish design into the house. The building's distinctive red brick facade, domes, arches, and intricate tile work all contribute to its Orientalist style.

The ceiling of the Arab Hall. — The ceiling of the Arab Hall © Hiro Taniguchi

Exhibits

One of the most notable features of Leighton House is the Arab Hall, completed in 1879. The hall is a stunning two-story space designed to showcase Leighton's collection of Islamic tiles, ceramics, and architectural fragments.

The walls are covered in beautiful blue and gold tiles from Iznik, Turkey, and the central fountain is surrounded by intricately carved wooden screens. The Arab Hall remains the centerpiece of the house, evoking a sense of opulence and exoticism.

Beyond the Arab Hall, Leighton House features a series of elegant and richly decorated rooms, including the Silk Room, the Drawing Room, and Leighton's own studio. Each space is adorned with beautiful artwork, elaborate textiles, and ornate furnishings. The rooms were designed to create an immersive environment for Leighton's artistic pursuits and to impress and entertain his guests.

Museum Access & Hours

12 Holland Park Rd
London W14 8LZ
Tel: 020 7361 3783
www: rbkc.gov.uk

Hours: Open 10 am to 5 pm every day except Tuesday.

Entry is presently 11 GBP to the house or 9 GBP for concessions. A combined ticket with Sambourne House is 20 GBP or 16 GBP for concessions.

Within easy walking distance are several other places of interest. These include the Design Museum, Holland Park with its lovely Japanese Garden and Japan House London. There are several upmarket hotels in this part of west London. Choose from the Hilton London Olympia, NOX Kensington or Seraphine Kensington Olympia.