As the Prince and Princess of Wales move into Forest Lodge with their three children, they are embracing a home that offers both history and modern luxury.
With Venetian windows, marble fireplaces, and a barrel-vaulted hall ceiling, the residence provides a stunning canvas for Kate, known for her love of interior design, to leave her personal touch.
A Spacious Canvas for Contemporary Classic Style
The eight-bedroom property is twice the size of their previous home at Adelaide Cottage, giving Kate ample space to showcase her signature “contemporary classic” aesthetic—described by insiders as elegant yet approachable.
The Princess has sourced furnishings from high-end British brands, including opulent fabrics from Marina Mill, known for handcrafting designs used in Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, and Highgrove.
Each metre of fabric costs over £100, reflecting the careful attention to detail she brings to every royal home.
Kate has also been spotted selecting a 24-seater antique dining table, signaling plans for grand family dinners and entertaining guests.
And, following past patterns, structural updates may be part of their renovation.
At Anmer Hall, they famously moved the kitchen to the centre of the home, suggesting a hands-on approach to creating functional yet beautiful living spaces.
Forest Lodge’s Renovation and Royal Funding
The 328-year-old Forest Lodge, featuring six bathrooms, has undergone modest renovations, including new doors and windows, renovated ceilings, stripped walls, and fresh floors.
Last updated in 2001 at a cost of £1.5 million, the Waleses are funding both the move and the refurbishment themselves while paying market rent to the Crown Estate.
Prince Harry’s memoir, Spare, paints a vivid picture of the grandeur found in William and Kate’s previous residences, describing Kensington Palace Apartment 1A as “magnificent” and leaving him and Meghan feeling “embarrassed” by their more modest living quarters.
That lavish yet tasteful approach is expected to carry over into Forest Lodge.
Art, Antiques, and Personal Touches
Kate’s love of art and classic décor shines through in the choice of paintings, antiques, and bespoke fabrics.
She has a keen eye for history, with previous residences showcasing works like Aelbert Cuyp’s 1655 painting A Page with Two Horses, alongside other landscapes that highlight her appreciation for craftsmanship.
The interiors at Kensington Palace balanced grandeur with comfort, incorporating floral cushions, velvet accents by Kelly Hoppen, candles by Jo Malone, and bespoke flower arrangements by royal florist Simon Lycett.
Kate may bring similar pieces to Forest Lodge, alongside a Persian rug from the Royal Collection valued at approximately £30,000.
Functional Yet Stylish Spaces
With eight bedrooms, the couple can create home offices that reflect their style and practical needs.
In 2020, Kate shared a glimpse of her workspace adorned with 12 cloth-bound Penguin Classics, a plush white sofa, and muted accent colours.
William’s office featured a marble fireplace, natural wooden furniture, and subtle antique touches, blending functionality with understated elegance.
Interior experts note that the couple consistently favors a “contemporary classic” palette: muted, earthy tones that create calm, harmonious spaces.
Plants and greenery have been incorporated to enhance wellbeing, while natural wood materials maintain a heritage feel.
Upholstered furniture is tailored but not over-embellished, ensuring the home feels polished without being flashy.
Subtle Luxury with a Personal Flair
The Forest Lodge interiors are expected to combine elegance, practicality, and personal charm.
Floral designs on soft furnishings, Ottoman-style embroidered cushions, and carefully chosen artwork all suggest a love of nature and traditional British design.
While the couple enjoys sophistication and luxury, their approach is thoughtful, modest, and deliberate—creating a home that is beautiful, welcoming, and distinctly theirs.