William and Kate Home Cost Defended by Royal Family, Rumored to Be Around $6 Million
The royal family has spoken out in defense of the cost of renovating Apartment 1A at Kensington Palace for Prince William, Duchess Kate, and Prince George. Most of the expense comes from having to update the apartment's security, electricity, and removing asbestos.
"This is the Duke and Duchess' one and only official residence," a royal spokesman said. "It is here that they plan to stay for many, many years to come. We also had to take into account the fact that Kensington Palace is a scheduled ancient monument and all elements of the refurbishment had to be agreed with English Heritage. Often this meant ensuring a high standard of work in line with the historical significance of the Christopher Wren building."
The cost of renovations is supposedly upwards of $6 million dollars, with some of the cost being put on taxpayers while the rest was paid by the royal family, including Kate and William. The couple chose their own designs for furniture and other furnishings and paid for those themselves. They did not ask for an extravagant design but wanted to keep things in line with the time period and make necessary updates for their son, George.
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The home is now equipped with modern conveniences such as central air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a panic room where the royal heirs can take shelter if necessary. The apartment was once home to Princess Margaret, Queen Elizabeth's sister, who died in 2002. It was last refurbished in 1963, just after Margaret moved in. It was definitely due for renovation before another couple could move in.
William and brother Harry grew up in Kensington Palace, where they lived with their mother, Princess Diana, for most of their childhood. After William married Kate, they moved to a small cottage within Kensington, and Harry was rumored to be moving in once William, Kate, and George moved out. However, he now has his own place.
