Globe House Eccleston Square Sw1v 1pn

Alright, picture this: You're strolling down Eccleston Square, SW1V 1PN, in the heart of London. You've got your best 'I'm not lost, I'm just exploring' face on, and suddenly, you spot it - Globe House. Now, I'm not saying it's the most exciting thing since sliced bread, but it's certainly not your average building.

What's the Big Deal?

First off, let's talk location. Globe House isn't hiding in some quiet alleyway, no, it's right there, smack dab in the middle of the square. It's like the party host who doesn't know when to say 'enough's enough' and keeps inviting more guests. But hey, who are we to judge?

Now, you might be thinking, "It's just a house, what's so special about it?" Well, my friend, let me paint you a picture. Imagine a grand, four-story, early 19th-century townhouse, all dressed up in its Georgian finery. It's like the prom queen of the square, and it's not afraid to show off.

Georgian Glamour

Globe House was built in the late 1700s, back when powdered wigs and fancy footwear were all the rage. It's a prime example of Georgian architecture, which is basically the architectural equivalent of a fancy ball gown. It's got all the trimmings - symmetrical design, grand windows, and a portico that's just begging for a red carpet.

But here's where things get interesting. You might think, "Sure, it's old, but so what?" Well, hold onto your top hats, because Globe House has a secret. It's not just any old house; it's a globular house. That's right, folks, it's round. Like a globe. Hence the name, I suppose.

Why the Roundabout?

Now, you're probably wondering, "Why in the name of all that's sensible would anyone build a round house?" Well, my curious friend, let me enlighten you. The story goes that the house was built for Sir Thomas Lawrence, a famous portrait painter of the time. He was a bit of an eccentric, and he wanted a house that would reflect his unique personality. So, he decided to build a house that was, quite literally, one of a kind.

But here's where the story takes a twist. Sir Thomas didn't actually live in the house. No, he rented it out to tenants. Can you imagine moving into a round house, only to find out that the person who built it didn't even live there? Talk about a plot twist!

From Art to Science

Now, you might think that the story of Globe House ends there, but oh no, we're just getting started. You see, in the 1800s, the house was home to none other than Michael Faraday, the famous scientist. He lived there while he was working on his groundbreaking research in electromagnetism. So, not only was it a round house, but it was also a science lab. Talk about a brainy pad!

89 Eccleston Sq, London, SW1V 1PN - Globe House | LoopNet

But wait, there's more! In the 1900s, the house was used as a school. Yes, you heard it right. Kids were running around in circles, learning their ABCs in a round house. I can only imagine the chaos that must have ensued when it was time for recess. Dodgeball, anyone?

From School Days to Movie Nights

But Globe House isn't just a historical curiosity. Oh no, it's got some serious Hollywood cred. In the 1990s, it was used as a location for the movie "Sense and Sensibility". You know, just your average period drama, set in a round house. Nothing weird about that.

And if that wasn't enough, the house has also been used as a location for music videos. Yes, you heard it right. Pop stars have been prancing around in their best Georgian-inspired outfits, all while singing about love and heartbreak. I can't help but wonder if they ever felt a bit dizzy from all the dancing in circles.

The House That Keeps on Giving

But here's where things get a bit sad. In 2012, the house was put up for sale. And not just any sale - it was up for auction. Can you imagine the bidding war that must have ensued? "I'll give you 500 quid for the round house!" "Well, I'll give you 550, and I'll throw in my best powdered wig!"

But alas, the house was sold, and it's now a private residence. Which means, unless you're friends with the owner, you'll have to admire it from the outside. But hey, at least you can still enjoy the view. And who knows? Maybe one day, you'll be lucky enough to score an invite to a party there. Just remember to bring your sea legs - it can get a bit wobbly in there!