From his primary residence, Clarence House, to his country retreat, Highgrove House, King Charles III's royal residences are among the most beautiful and famous properties globally. However, grandeur aside, the royal family shares some decorating questions we all face as homeowners – including what color to paint their front door (or in their case, doors).
The power of the right front door color is no secret – it showcases your style and personality to all who pass by your home. And while finding the right hue is naturally important to us all, it is imperative in the case of the royal residences – where their chosen tone makes a more public impression on the world. So, which colors made the selection?
Here, experts discuss the front door colors in King Charles III's 5 most famous homes – and what the chosen tones say about the man who lives inside.
1. Clarence House – White
'The color white is often chosen by people who connect with traditions. So, a white front door would reflect that the homeowner is an avid supporter of traditional thought processes,' says Bailey Moran, a landscape design expert and the COO of Austin TX Realty. It is perhaps unsurprising, therefore, that the King chooses to reflect this ideology in Clarence House – his primary residence on The Mall in the City of Westminster, London.
'In symbolism, a white front door would mean that the homeowner has put effort into how their home should be perceived.'
2. Highgrove House – Cream
Differing only slightly from his primary residence, the King's country hideaway, Highgrove House in Gloucestershire, South West England, has a cream, off-white front door.
'Cream is a beautiful color to paint your front door. It will portray that your home is serene while also adding a touch of warmth to the property,' says Carter Crowley, an exterior decorator and licensed realtor at Wisconsin's CB Home Solutions. It is, therefore, an apt choice for a home that no doubt encourages the King and Queen Consort to escape their duties in London.
'This color is similar to white, as it symbolizes the cleanliness and freshness of your home. It is an inviting color that compels outsiders to take a look inside. It will attract the outside world toward the well-organized and spa-like beauty of serenity and simplicity. Plus, it will proudly reflect your positivity to others.'
And realtors aside, interior experts agree. New York-based designer Artem Kropovinsky says this cream hue is 'a symbol of refinement and elegance' and, of course, always versatile.
3. Sandringham House – Black
Located in Norfolk, Sandringham House is among the best-known royal homes – due to its striking size and the fact that it famously hosts the family every Christmas. Close-up images of the home's front door are hard to come by, but the main house has a black front door – a safe but stylish choice that evokes a hint of power (think: the front door of 10 Downing St) around the family.
'Black is a sophisticated, dramatic color that can lend a home a stylish, modern look. It can also evoke a sense of mystery or intrigue,' Artem says.
4. Llwynywermod – Blue
King Charles and Camilla, Queen Consort, have access to a charming Welsh farmhouse named Llwynywermod, which the now-Prince and Princess of Wales inherited with their titles. Though the cottage belongs to Prince William and Princess Catherine, it was a favorite of the King, who often stays there while visiting Wales.
Though notably smaller than the other residence, this cottage is the most playful in its curb appeal choices. Lick’s Director of Interiors and Color Psychologist, Tash Bradley, says that a light blue tone, such as this, offers an 'easy-going family' aesthetic – adding that it looks 'relaxed' and 'approachable' in comparison to other hues.
5. Balmoral – Brown
It would be impossible to conclude the list without mentioning Balmoral, the King's Scottish castle that was Queen Elizabeth's beloved summer home. Here, the family has chosen a brown front door – a choice that, Artem suggests, is fitting for its verdant surroundings.
'Brown is a warm, welcoming color often connected to nature and earth. It can give a home a cozy and secure appearance,' he says. We could think of no better color for this estate – nestled deep in the Aberdeenshire mountains.
We could also think of no more apt time to invest in coronation memorabilia. Here are our top picks of pieces that will stay in style – long after the event.
Penhaligon’s have been the monarch's perfume makers for generations and have a Royal Warrant to prove it. Inspired by King Charles III’s gardens at his country estate, Highgrove Bouquet is a delicate fragrance.
Fortnum & Mason have a well-established relationship with the royal family, so it's no surprise they have a special coronation collection. This includes Fortnum's iconic hamper, filled with their limited edition Coronation range.
A simple commemoration of his majesty, this plate is a simple ceramic heirloom to mark the occasion of King Charles III’s coronation. It features Sir Jony Ive’s stylish and iconic emblem and would make a wonderful gift too.
