575 Wandsworth Road: The Artistic Home of Khadambi Asalache
Discover the extraordinary hand-carved artistry and cultural legacy within the modest Georgian home of Khadambi Asalache in London.
575 Wandsworth Road is a Grade II-listed Georgian terraced house in London, transformed into a unique work of art by Kenyan-born poet and civil servant Khadambi Asalache. Known for its intricate hand-carved fretwork and painted floors inspired by African, Moorish, and Ottoman designs, the house is a captivating cultural treasure. Open for pre-booked tours from May to October, it offers visitors an intimate glimpse into Asalache’s creative legacy and personal collection.
A brief summary to National Trust - 575 Wandsworth Road
- 575 Wandsworth Rd, London, SW8 3JD, GB
- +443442491895
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Pre-book your tour well in advance as group sizes are limited to six people to protect the delicate interiors.
- Bring thick gripped socks or enclosed slippers since outdoor shoes are not allowed inside to preserve the hand-painted floors.
- Tours are available on Thursdays and Fridays from May to October, with three sessions daily at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm.
- The house is currently closed for conservation until May 2026, so check availability before planning your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Overground Train
Take the London Overground to Wandsworth Road station, approximately a 10-minute walk from the house. Trains run frequently throughout the day. No parking is available at the site.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve Wandsworth Road, with stops within a 5 to 10-minute walk. Bus journeys from central London typically take 20 to 35 minutes depending on traffic.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London takes about 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Limited parking near the house means drop-off is recommended.
National Trust - 575 Wandsworth Road location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about National Trust - 575 Wandsworth Road
An Unassuming Exterior Concealing Artistic Mastery
Nestled in the heart of London’s SW8 district, 575 Wandsworth Road appears modest and unassuming from the outside, a typical early 19th-century Georgian terraced house built in 1819. However, stepping inside reveals a breathtaking transformation. The house’s exterior belies the extraordinary interior, where every surface is adorned with intricate, hand-carved fretwork and vibrant painted motifs. These designs reflect a fusion of traditional African aesthetics with Moorish and Ottoman influences, creating a unique artistic environment rarely seen in London.The Vision and Legacy of Khadambi Asalache
Khadambi Asalache (1935–2006), a Kenyan-born poet, novelist, philosopher of mathematics, and British civil servant, purchased the house in 1981. Over two decades, starting from 1986, he painstakingly transformed the interior into a personal sanctuary and work of art. His meticulous craftsmanship involved carving elaborate fretwork patterns from pine and painting floors with delicate, hand-painted motifs. Following his death, Asalache bequeathed the property to the National Trust, which opened it to the public in 2013, preserving his artistic vision exactly as he left it.A Living Museum of Cultural Heritage
The house is more than just a beautifully decorated space; it is a living museum showcasing Asalache’s extensive collection of textiles, pink and copper lusterware, and African landscape illustrations. Visitors experience the house as a holistic artwork, where furniture, objects, and decorative elements harmonize to evoke a sense of home and cultural identity. The National Trust maintains the interiors with great care, requiring visitors to remove their shoes and wear thick gripped socks or slippers to protect the delicate hand-painted floors.Intimate and Guided Visits
To preserve the fragile interiors and ensure a personal experience, visits to 575 Wandsworth Road are by pre-booked guided tours only, limited to six people per group. Tours run on Thursdays and Fridays from May to October, with sessions at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. The knowledgeable volunteer guides provide rich insights into Asalache’s life, artistic techniques, and the cultural significance of his work, making each visit both educational and inspiring.Community Inspiration and Artistic Influence
Since opening, 575 Wandsworth Road has become a source of inspiration for artists, creatives, and cultural historians alike. The house fosters social connections and creative collaborations, celebrating the legacy of a remarkable individual who bridged cultures through art. It stands as a testament to the power of personal vision and cultural heritage, inviting visitors to reflect on themes of home, identity, and artistic legacy.Preservation and Future Access
Currently closed for essential conservation work, 575 Wandsworth Road is scheduled to reopen for pre-booked tours in May 2026. The National Trust continues to safeguard this unique property, ensuring that future generations can experience the extraordinary artistry and cultural richness embodied within its walls. Virtual tours and talks are also offered for groups unable to visit in person, extending access to Asalache’s inspiring home beyond London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly