Citroën House Blue Plaque

About This Blue Plaque

Citroën House is located at 184 Shepherds Bush Road in London. The plaque commemorates the interesting history and architectural significance of this structure.Citroën House was originally constructed in 1916 as a showroom and service depot for the Ford Motor Company. Designed by Charles Heathcote & Sons, a Manchester-based architecture firm, it was an early example of a concrete-framed building. This innovative construction technique allowed for larger open spaces and expansive windows, ideal for showcasing automobiles.In 1923, the French automaker Citroën took over the building, leading to it being renamed Citroën House. The company likely used the space to exhibit their latest car models to the London market. Citroën itself was a pioneering brand, known for innovative designs like the Traction Avant, one of the earliest mass-produced front-wheel drive cars.During World War II, Citroën House was requisitioned by the Royal Air Force for military use. After the war, it was occupied by Osram, a German lighting manufacturer. Today, the building stands as a reminder of the evolving nature of industry and commerce in 20th-century London, with its transition from American to French automakers reflecting the city’s status as a global hub.The Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, where Citroën House is located, has a rich history entwined with transportation and industry. Once home to several car factories and showrooms, the area has transformed over time as London’s economy has shifted towards service and creative sectors. Yet landmarks like Citroën House offer a tangible link to this industrial past amidst the ever-changing urban landscape.