The late and famously prolific English author Dame Barbara Cartland, whose 720-plus novels sold upwards of 750 million copies, was the so-called “Queen of Romance,” so don’t be surprised if you fall in love with her sumptuous former London home. Located in Mayfair, one of the most affluent areas of the British capital, the novelist’s lavish five-story mansion is newly listed for a hefty £35 million (or roughly $44.2 million).
Originally built in 1902 for Liberal politician and stockbroker Sir Cuthbert Quilter, the Edwardian-style abode has played host to its fair share of high-profile residents. The elegant abode was purchased by Cartland in 1936 and is where she raised her daughter, Countess Raine Spencer, better known as the stepmother to Princess Diana. (Despite the connection, Cartland was not invited to Diana’s wedding to Charles in 1981.) In the century-plus since it was erected, the palatial pad also served as the birthplace of Sir Alec Douglas-Home, who briefly served as Prime Minister in the mid-1960s.
“This remarkable property is widely regarded as the quintessential London mansion. It exudes elegance and sophistication, with its exceptional features and prime location just moments away from Park Lane and Grosvenor Square,” notes Compass real estate agent, Michael Holt, who has been granted the right to market this property in the US.
Designed by acclaimed architect Detmar Blow, the 8,500-square-foot property features a stately red-brick exterior adorned with neo-classical cornices. Inside, soaring and embellished ceilings, stone fireplaces, and a sweeping wooden staircase are among the home’s original period features.
For all the historic detailing and traditional finery, there are, however, a notable number of modernizations. For example, the basement has been turned into a full-blown spa, where you’ll find an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, a designated relaxation zone, and even a bar.
No stranger to entertaining, Cartland made good use of the grandly proportioned principal reception areas on the ground and first floors, which combined can accommodate over 100 guests. Elsewhere, the deluxe digs comprise six bedrooms, including a swanky primary suite that occupies the entire second floor. The space is decked out with a projector over the bed, an enormous walk-in closet, an ensuite bath, and its own private terrace.
“Undoubtedly, this truly magnificent home stands as the epitome of luxury living in London,” crows the listing. We concur.
Click here to see all the photos of 28 South Street.
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