Born in London in 1775, this English architect followed his father James Wyatt into the profession after an initial stint in the East India Company civil service and a term as secretary to Arthur Wellesley.
Service to the Duke of Wellington
Wyatt worked closely with the Duke of Wellington on several significant domestic commissions. Following the 1815 Battle of Waterloo, he presented plans for a proposed estate featuring an octagonal staircase hall and a coffered dome. Although the Stratfield Saye project was ultimately shelved, his engagement continued at Apsley House. Between 1819 and 1828, he managed major extensions, including the Waterloo Gallery and the addition of a Bath stone cladding to the structure. Costs for these modifications rose from an initial estimate of 23,000 pounds to over 61,000 pounds due to structural repairs.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Westport House and Rococo Revival
In Ireland, Wyatt expanded Westport House for the 2nd Marquess of Sligo. He added a north wing in 1816 and a south wing in 1819, the latter housing a library supported by cast iron brackets. A sophisticated hot air system installed in this wing led to its destruction by fire in 1826. By the mid-1820s, Wyatt played a key role in the revival of the Rococo style, demonstrating this aesthetic through his interior designs for Belvoir Castle, where he oversaw the creation of the Dining Room, Picture Gallery, and Elizabeth Saloon.
Professional Contributions in London
Wyatt occupied the post of Surveyor of the Fabric of Westminster Abbey from 1813 until 1827. His portfolio of institutional work in London included collaboration with his brother, Philip William Wyatt, on projects such as Crockford's Club and the Oriental Club. Additionally, he produced designs for Lancaster House and the Duke of York Column, which reached completion in the early 1830s. Throughout his career, he trained notable pupils including Alexander Dick Gough and Robert Lewis Roumieu.
Fast facts
- Born: 1775, London
- Died: 1852
- Education: Westminster School
- Surveyor of the Fabric of Westminster Abbey: 1813–1827
- Notable project: Theatre Royal, Drury Lane
- Architectural focus: Classical Architecture
Questions readers ask
What was Wyatt's role in the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane?
He won the competition to rebuild the theatre in 1811 following a fire, incorporating acoustic features modeled after the theatre at Bordeaux.
How did the work on Apsley House change over time?
It began with a three-storey extension in 1819 and later expanded to include a new staircase and the Waterloo Gallery once Wellington became Prime Minister.
Achievements
- Trained at Westminster School
