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Details About William & Kate's Lavish Kensington Palace Apartment
By KIRSTIE BINGHAM
The Palace
Originally a smaller residence named Nottingham House, renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren expanded the cottage into a palace in the 17th century.
The State Rooms, the Queen's State Apartments (designed for Queen Mary II), and the lush gardens are available for public viewing, but the private apartments are inaccessible.
The Gardens
Part of the appeal of living in Kensington Palace for Kate was the apartment's secluded walled garden, which is visible from all the primary rooms in the apartment.
Kate, being an avid gardener, appreciated the use of green space. There is also a sunken garden, the Italian garden, the cradle walk (an arched arbor), and a wildflower meadow.
The Size
The Cambridges' apartment contains over 20 rooms, including two reception rooms, a private gym, an elevator, studies, a dining room, and three kitchens (two for staff).
There are two master suites, but William and Kate have broken with tradition and share the same bedroom. The nine rooms on the top floor are for nannies, housekeepers, and butlers.
Renovation
Due to an asbestos discovery in 2012, a renovation was needed before the couple could move in. The residence had been primarily empty since Princess Margaret died in 2002.
Updates
The restoration of the apartment cost approximately £4.5 million, with wiring and plumbing updates and the installation of eco-friendly heating and hot water systems.
Although the apartment initially had 30 rooms, some walls were removed to create a more open layout. It also received a new roof, and the walls were replastered.