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Custom House

The Custom House in London is a historic building on the north bank of the Thames, formerly used for the collection of customs duties. Here are some key facts about its history:

  • Origins in the 14th Century: A custom house has existed in the area since the 14th century, originally located at Wool Quay, where duties were levied on exported wool.
  • Christopher Wren’s Design: After the Great Fire of London (1666) destroyed the previous building, Sir Christopher Wren designed a replacement, completed in 1668.
  • 1715 Fire & Thomas Ripley’s Rebuild: Wren’s structure was damaged beyond repair in a 1715 fire, leading to a new three-story building designed by Thomas Ripley, completed in 1718.
  • David Laing’s Expansion (1817): With growing trade, a larger Custom House was built by David Laing in 1817, but part of it collapsed in 1820, requiring reconstruction.
  • Robert Smirke’s Façade (1828): The riverside façade was redesigned in 1828 by Sir Robert Smirke, adding a classical appearance.
  • Modern Use: Today, the Custom House is used by His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, continuing its legacy in trade and taxation.
  • David Laing was the architect of the New Custom House in London, completed in 1817. However, the building suffered structural issues, and part of it collapsed in 1825 due to inadequate foundations. Following this, Sir Robert Smirke was brought in to rebuild the central section and reinforce the structure.
  • Laing, a pupil of Sir John Soane, also worked on St Dunstan-in-the-East and the Corn Market at Colchester. His career was significantly impacted by the Custom House collapse, leading to his suspension from his role as Architect & Surveyor of the Board of Customs.

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