A Rare Peek Inside King Charles And Camilla’s Luxurious Private Home
London’s prestigious Clarence House has stood since the 19th century and has been home to a couple you might recognize: Charles and his wife, Camilla. Now, of course, following the sad news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II, they’re King Charles III and the Queen, respectively. In keeping with tradition, their new main home will presumably soon be Windsor Castle. Still, the couple have spent the best of two decades living in England’s capital, and the prestigious building remains part of a broader history that fascinates the world. Want to know more about the interior of Clarence House? Let us take you on a royal tour.
The Mall
Situated in the City of Westminster, Clarence House is part of a long road called The Mall, which leads to the monarch’s official London residence, Buckingham Palace. Clarence House is also close to another historical landmark, St James’ Palace. Before the then-Prince-of-Wales and Camilla moved in, the former had been home to the Queen Mother, who passed away in 2002 at age 101.
Renowned architect
Here’s a glimpse of the house’s spectacular interior. You’re looking at a photo of the Morning Room from 1894. Taken several years before the Queen Mother’s birth, it was designed by Clarence House’s renowned British architect John Nash and, at the time of this photo, had existed for over seven decades. We’re mentioning the Morning Room now for two important reasons.
Grandeur and continuity
Firstly, it was the Queen Mother’s favorite room in the house. Secondly, the decor emphasizes an all-important sense of grandeur and continuity. While the Queen Mother would have put her own stamp on the place, the royals aren’t ones to replace the insides of a property with a whole new style. Not when centuries of tradition are at stake!
Personal touch
Certain elements have been preserved through the ages. For example, when the Queen Mother died, her dutiful grandson ensured items such as her artworks and furniture remained in place. In addition, he brought his personal touch to Clarence House, which we’ll discuss later. We’re also taking time to briefly remember the former prince’s interior decorator, Robert Kime, who directed the most recent refurbishment.
