Earlier Houses: The first Kent House was built in 1790 across from the new Knightsbridge Barracks of the Household Cavalry. Its name derives from Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, a son of George III. The duke lived here with his mistress, Julie de St. Laurent, while maintaining his official residence across the park at Kensington Palace. The duke's daughter, Princess Victoria, became Queen Victoria. After the duke's death, a number of authors and statesmen occupied Kent House. The House was demolished in 1870.
House & Family History: In the early 20th century Lady Noble, granddaughter of pioneering railway engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, transformed many of the interiors of Kent House, most famously employing the Spanish artist Jose Maria Sert to decorate the music rooms (where the sanctuary now stands) with a series of murals. Princess Marie Louise, granddaughter of Queen Victoria, recalled fondly in her memoirs of living for a time at Kent House with her friend Lady Noble. Sir Saxton and Lady Noble sold Kent House in 1940 and the House slowly skipped into a state of disrepair, until it was purchased and restored in the 1960s by Westminster Synagogue, which has occupied the building ever since. In 2002-03 Phase I of a £3.3 million restoration plan for Kent House was carried out by Westminster Synagogue.
Architect: Henry Clutton
Date: 1872-74House Listed: Not Listed
Park Listed: Not Listed
Current Seat / Home of: Owned by Westminster Synagogue since the 1960s and used as a public function venue.
Past Seat / Home of: SEATED AT EARLIER HOUSE: Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, 18th-19th centuries. SEATED AT CURRENT HOUSE: Louisa, Lady Ashburton, widow of William Baring Bingham, 2nd Baron Ashburton, 19th century. Sir Saxton and Lady Noble, early 20th century. Princess Marie Louise, 20th century.
Current Ownership Type: Charity / Nonprofit
Primary Current Ownership Use: Conference Center
Ownership Details: Owned by Westminster Synagogue since the 1960s and used as a public function venue.
House Open to Public: By Appointment
Phone: 02075-913-838
Fax: 02075-818-012
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.kenthouseknightsbridge.org
Historic Houses Member: No