Hardwick was the most prominent name in architecture during the 19th century. From the late 18th century until 1892 the Hardwick Dynasty contributed and restored some of the finest buildings in London.

Hardwick was born in Brentford, greater London, to a prosperous master mason Thomas Hardwick Snr. (1725 -1798), who worked with the Adam brothers during the building of Syon House. Hardwick Jnr. underwent his training during the construction of the Somerset House and was tutored by William Chambers. He became a member of the Royal Academy and won the prestigious gold medal in architecture. Then came his travel to Europe with his close friend/rival Sir John Soane; together they visited Italy and France.

Thomas became a notable church architect and the church of St Mary’s is his finest piece of work in London. The building is a prime example of Regency architecture. His other work included the restoration of St James in Piccadilly, St. Paul’s in Convent Garden and St Bartholomew-the-less in Smithfield. He was also appointed Clerk of Works by King George III at both Hampton Court and Kew Palace.