Studio visit to The Homewood

Horizontal windows in a radiant white facade, influenced by Le Corbusier and Mies Van der Rohe.  ©Mike Tonkin

Esher, a mere 25-minute train ride from London Waterloo, embodies tranquil Surrey living. It has however emerged last year as a destination for modernist architecture enthusiasts since the National Trust unveiled The Homewood to the public. Completed in 1938 by 24-year-old architect Patrick Gwynne, the Homewood replaced his family's Victorian house. Elevated on stilts and set in 10 acres of leafy and meticulously landscaped grounds, the house appears to float above the ground. Within its walls, the Homewood is a treasure trove that never stands still, showcasing an architect’s meeting table with pull-out shelves, a colour-changing dining room table, and a pivoting table for cocktail-making. The project seamlessly blends international modernism with the charm of a British country house.                                Text by Hannah Lewis

©Mike Tonkin