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The Grand Staircase in Dorchester House
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The Grand Staircase in Dorchester House
Interior of Dorchester House at the time it was the residence of the American Ambassador in London, Mr Whitelaw Reid. Located on Park Lane, it was designed by Lewis Vulliamy for Robert Holford, built on the site of an earlier house belonging to the Earls of Dorchester in 1851 - 53. It was the residence of Mr. Whitelaw Reid, American Ambassador to the Court of St. James s, from 1905-13 and served as a hospital during World War I. One of the most impressive and palatial mansions in London, It contained a fine picture gallery, library and was particularly noted for its grand staircase. The house was sold in 1929 and demolished to make way for the Dorchester Hotel. Date: 1906
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Media ID 14409082
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Ambassador Dec16 Dorchester Lane Mansion Mansions Reid Staircase Whitelaw
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This magnificent interior photograph captures the grandeur and opulence of Dorchester House on Park Lane in London during the early 20th century. Designed by Lewis Vulliamy and built between 1851 and 1853, the mansion was originally the residence of the Earls of Dorchester. However, by 1905, it had become the official residence of the American Ambassador to the Court of St. James's, Mr. Whitelaw Reid. The image showcases the mansion's most impressive feature, the grand staircase. With its intricately carved balustrades, ornate railings, and elegant wrought-iron banisters, the staircase is a testament to the Victorian era's architectural grandeur. The natural light filtering in from the large windows at the top of the stairwell adds to the sense of spaciousness and elegance. At the time, Dorchester House was one of the most palatial mansions in London, boasting a fine picture gallery, library, and other luxurious amenities. Mr. Reid's tenure as ambassador saw the house serve as a hub of diplomatic and social activity, hosting numerous receptions and events. Sadly, Dorchester House was sold in 1929 and demolished to make way for the Dorchester Hotel. Today, the hotel stands as a reminder of the grandeur and opulence that once defined London's social scene. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, transporting us back to a time when mansions like Dorchester House were the epitome of luxury and sophistication.
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