Thomas Cundy (senior) facts for kids
Thomas Cundy (born 1765, died 1825) was a talented English architect. He worked as a surveyor for the wealthy Grosvenor family in London starting in 1821. He helped plan the early development of famous areas like Belgravia and Bloomsbury. Thomas Cundy also designed beautiful country houses in a style called "picturesque Gothic."
A Life in Architecture
Thomas Cundy was born in Cornwall, England, and was baptized on February 18, 1765. His father was Peter Cundy.
He started his career by learning from a builder in Plymouth. When he was 21, he moved to London. At 28, he worked as a clerk of the works at Normanton Park. He helped complete changes there after the main architect retired.
Later, Cundy started his own business as an architect and builder. In 1821, he became the main surveyor for Earl Grosvenor's large London properties. He took over this important job from William Porden. Before this, he had already changed two houses on the Grosvenor estate.
During his time as surveyor, the basic plan for the Belgravia area was created. However, Thomas Cundy passed away before many buildings were actually built there.
Cundy designed or made big changes to many important buildings. These include Middleton Park and Osterley for the Earl of Jersey. He also worked on Tottenham Park in Wiltshire and Hawarden Castle. Other projects included Burton Constable, Syon House, Northumberland House in London, and Wytham in Oxfordshire. He often showed his designs at the Royal Academy.
Thomas Cundy died on December 28, 1825. His son, also named Thomas Cundy, took over his important job with the Grosvenor estate.
His Family
Thomas Cundy married Mary Hubert in 1789. They had six sons together. Their eldest son, Thomas (1790–1867), also became a well-known architect. Another son, Joseph (1795–1875), also worked as an architect and builder.
Notable Projects
Here are some of the buildings Thomas Cundy worked on:
- Middleton Park, Oxfordshire: He helped restore this house for the 5th Earl of Jersey between 1806 and 1810.
- Osterley Park: Another project for the Earl of Jersey.
- Tottenham Park, Wiltshire: A large country estate where Cundy contributed his skills.
- Hawarden Castle: Cundy made this existing house much larger between 1809 and 1810. He covered the entire building in stone, giving it a castle-like "Gothick" style.
- Burton Constable: He worked on this historic country house.
- Syon House: Cundy was involved in projects at this grand estate.
- Northumberland House: He designed a magnificent marble staircase for this London house, built in 1822–1823.
- Wytham, Oxfordshire: Another country house where Cundy left his mark.
- Wassand House, Seaton, Yorkshire: He built this house for the Rev. Charles Constable between 1813 and 1819.
