For years, I have driven into central London over the Vauxhall Bridge. When I reached the fork of the road, my eyes went to Brunswick House, always in a dilapidated state. I have asked myself for years why such a beautiful Georgian residence could be allowed to be so ignored and forgotten. When I last past by, I was stunned by the huge glass development built along the Thames totally ignoring Brunswick House. I am happy to report that Brunswick House has been saved and houses a good restaurant and an antique shop offering architectural features. I have never been in the building before or after restoration, but I am going to visit when I am in London in May. I must admit that I have no taste for the setting now that glass structures dwarf the house. It seems like a case for Prince Charles–a little late now, but the development is a complete compromise of the historical value of the house. A bridge at Vauxhall Bridge was the oldest and once the only bridge crossing the Thames. When this house was built in the 18th century, the Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens were the center of London’s society. This was the world of Jane Austen. Now? Unfortunate, to say the least. Let’s go antique shopping here and have lunch in the restaurant. Amazing.
Thomas Moore email: TMooreSr@me.com Telephone: 801.791.9918
