Chambers, William
| Dates | 1730s; 1755-1796 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Ripon; London | ||
| Vocation | Architect | ||
| Place of Birth | Gothenburg, Sweden | ||
| Marriage | Catherine More | ||
| Issue | Cornelia; George; Selina; Charlotte; twin sons (died young) | ||
| Place of birth | Source | Oxford Dictionary of National Biography |
Born in Sweden to an emigre Scottish merchant. Educated in Ripon (1730s), but returned to Sweden (1739) and joined the Swedish East India Company, travelling extensively in India and China. Studied architecture in France and Italy, developing expertise in the French neo-classical style (1749-1755). Set up a practice in London (1755), where he was quickly forced to adapt to the English palladian taste. Turned to self-promotion via writing, and published various books and essays on design, including 'Proposals for Publishing by Subscription, Designs of Villas, Temples, Gates, Doors, and Chimney Pieces' and 'Designs of Chinese Buildings, Furniture, Dresses, Machines and Utensils' (both 1757). Caught the eye of Princess Augusta, and appointed her architect, as well as architectural tutor to the future George III. Appointed architect to the office of works, jointly with his great rival, Adam, Robert (1761). Worked on many royal projects, including designing Kew Gardens (1763), Buckingham House (1762-1773) and Windsor Castle (1776-1779). Also worked for private clients, designing mainly town houses and villas. Somerset House (, with his masterpiece being Somerset House (1795) generally regarded as his masterpiece. Driving force behind the establishment of the Royal Academy of Arts (1768). Fellow of the Royal Society (1776).
