A six-storey London townhouse of a former Spectator editor is for sale
Caroline’s impeccably presented townhouse on St James’ Place has been put on the market for the first time in 26 years.
It has a rich history of occupancy – an influential Londoner, Joseph Addison, is believed to have lived and worked here in the early 18th century.
Widely known as a writer, poet, and politician, in 1709 Joseph began contributing to the brand new and innovative Tatler The publication that discussed the gossip of elite society. And in 1711, he participated in the launch ViewerThe well-known political news bulletin. He was also famous for helping to create an influential private men’s club called the Kit Kat Club.
Joseph is believed to have purchased the house in 1710, and eventually used the ground floor drawing room and office to write about. The Tatler And ViewerMember club management. A separate drawing room and second office upstairs is where he is believed to have handled his political affairs.
Built in 1685, the Grade II listed townhouse was selected by Historic England for its stunning preservation and rare historic features. Original features include shuttered windows, high ceilings, original Georgian staircase, built-in display cabinets, marble fireplaces, window seats, wood paneling, plasterwork and vaulted ceilings. The original ‘closet’ or service wing preserved on the lower ground floor of the property are few and far between today.
The house is 3,176 square feet and is spread over six floors. The first three floors comprise impressive communal areas, including a beautiful reception room on the ground floor and a drawing room on the first floor. The lower ground floor is where the spacious kitchen and recently updated dining room can be found.
The entire second floor includes a magnificent master bedroom suite with dressing room and luxurious en-suite bathroom. On the remaining two upper floors there are three more bedrooms with bathrooms on both floors.
The front of the property is a rare gas lamp – another unique historical feature. This was probably installed in 1716 in response to a new Act of Parliament requiring residential houses housing businesses to burn an outside gas lantern from 6 to 11 p.m., or risk a penalty charge of one shilling.
This historic home is now on the market for £6,250,000 with Wetherell estate agent.
Tour the rest of the property below…
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