Sutton House, 2 -4 Homerton High Street, Hackney, London
Sutton House, built in 1535 by Sir Ralph Sadleir, is a rare example of Tudor residential architecture in East London. It offers valuable insights into 16th-century interior design.
The house preserves original 16th-century oak panelling, particularly those in the linenfold style. This style originated in 14th-century Flanders but gained popularity in England over the following centuries, where renowned schools of oak furniture and panelling flourished. The Linenfold Parlour features woodwork designed to imitate folded fabric, which also serves a practical purpose by insulating the rooms and protecting the space from the cold brick walls. Such oak panels were regarded as valuable, movable furnishings, with owners taking them along when they relocated. Initially, many of those panels were likely painted in vibrant colours, though much of this decoration was later lost.
Another feature of Tudor interior design is the 16th-century trompe l’oeil frescoes in the corridors and staircases, designed to resemble carved wood. These frescoes include goats, dogs, gryphons, and rams, reflecting the Tudor’s appreciation for detailed, illusionistic art.
