Persuasion
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The Marylebone home of Jane Austen’s brother has been lovingly recreated and is now a sumptuous place to stay
T is is a thing of beauty when old and somewhat forgotten buildings are restored to their former splendour; even more so when they are recreated and shared. Such is the case with the newly renovated Henry’s Townhouse (@ henrystownhouse). In the heart of Marylebone, this Grade II-listed former home of Jane Austen’s brother Henry – where Jane herself was a regular – has been brought back to life as an exclusive place to visit, stay and, most of all, enjoy. Even more magical is the way in which it has been reimagined, echoing a rich and intriguing history full of the intense characters and fascinating lives of a London that once was. At number 24 Upper Berkeley Street, the house was the subject of a collaboration between owners Jane and Steven Collins and the award-wining interior designer Russell Sage Studio. They have recreated the Regency period, taking inspiration from Austen’s reported life at the house and as part of wider London society. While far from museumlike, the spaces are so elegantly designed and curated that one feels truly transported into the Austen era; an era beautifully portrayed in the Netflix sensation Bridgerton. From the pretty colour palettes to the carefully selected fabrics and detailing, with original period pieces, there is an overriding feel of sumptuous luxury. This is best seen in the seven elegant and elaborate bedrooms, each with their own story to tell. Much like Austen’s novels, they pull you in until you are so immersed that you cannot see any further – and nor would you want to. This intoxicating spirit is evident elsewhere in the house too. The Georgian Pantry Kitchen is ideal for private dining, while Jane’s Reading Room and the Carriage Snug are ideal for evening drinks or peaceful moments. To complement the captivating visual history, the Townhouse has created a sensory experience with its first collection of candles. The six fragrance blends paint a picture of Regency London society and life in the Austen household. There are notes of black tea from the east (newly popular in London at the time), the fresh blooms that typically scented Marylebone households, the cinnamon and cloves of a busy basement kitchen and the glass of port that would accompany cigars. Each smart white ceramic candle holder bears a silhouette portrait (known at the time as a ‘shade’) that reflects the name of the scent. All are now available at Liberty and are a beautiful way to prepare for the real deal: a visit to Henry’s.
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