What if I told you Bradmore House has lived many lives? It stands here today a testament to both ambitious dreams and careful preservation.
Bradmore House is a Grade II listed building. It sits proudly on Queen Caroline Street in Hammersmith London. Its story is interwoven with tales of actors merchants and even a chief justice.
Originally Bradmore House was part of Butterwick Manor House. Edward Latymer owned this grand estate. In the early 18th century Bradmore House emerged as an extension. It was added to the north side of the existing mansion.
Henry Ferne bought Butterwick House in 1700. He is believed to have built Bradmore House. History suggests it was intended for his mistress. This was the actress Mrs. Anne Oldfield.
Fast forward to 1739 and Elijah Impey a merchant buys Butterwick House. He divided the house. Bradmore House became a separate dwelling. For decades it served as a school.
Butterwick House was demolished in 1836. But Bradmore House continued its journey. In 1913 the London General Omnibus Company or LGOC acquired the site. They planned to build a garage.
The London County Council intervened. They recognized the architectural value of Bradmore House. The elegant baroque facade was carefully dismantled. It was then re-erected as the facade of the new LGOC offices. The building now faced west instead of east.
The facade was raised to accommodate buses. Large vehicle entrances were added in the wings. Two panelled first-floor rooms were also saved. The larger room became a billiard room in the new offices. Later in the 1950s it was moved to Trinity House Almshouses. The smaller room found a new home at the Geffrye Museum. A brick alcove from the external stair was also moved there.
The garage closed in 1983. Bradmore House was rebuilt in 1994. This happened as part of the Hammersmith Broadway development. The restored early-C18 facade was incorporated. In 2002 the panelled room from the Geffrye Museum returned to Bradmore House.
Although often attributed to Thomas Archer there is no firm evidence. Bradmore House is an example of English Baroque domestic architecture. Its re-erection in 1913 shows remarkable foresight. The fine-quality early-C18 panelling and carved decoration add to its charm.
Today Bradmore House stands as a unique blend of history and modernity. In 2025, Kindred breathed new life into the building. It transformed it into a members’ club. The club is part workspace part social hub. It emphasizes a strong community focus. Bradmore House now serves as a vibrant space. It offers an all-day cafe bar open to the public. The upper levels are reserved for members.
So as you stand before Bradmore House remember its layered past. It is a survivor a testament to London’s architectural heritage. It has evolved over centuries. It continues to adapt to the needs of the present.