Beaux Was Here: The Cosmic House

I can't tell if I love or hate the MDF overstimulation, but I do know I LOVE a home with personality, soul. Like Diana Vreeland, I'd rather have bad taste than no taste. Enter: The Cosmic House.

It took me a year to get tickets to The Cosmic House. (She says, in a cool way.) They sell out when they are released every third friday of the month in 30 seconds. Hint: apple pay and on your phone is the only way to swiftly purchase. Don’t bother with laptops and entering CC info…they’ll be all sold by the time you do.

I have been wanting to go here for years. And it has finally happened. Here are some emojis to reflect the excitment: 💫🥳💅🙌🏼❣️🌞👀♥️💌. Ok, let’s get in!

Amidst the charming streets of London's Holland Park lies the Cosmic House, a hidden gem that marries architectural brilliance with celestial wonder. Originally the residence of the famed architectural historian Charles Jencks (hello COOL COFFEE TABLE BOOK) and his wife Maggie Keswick Jencks, this far out abode has been transformed into a museum that invites visitors to embark on a journey through the cosmos without ever leaving the city. I am just so chuffed that it wasn’t gutted and turned into a polished stone floor and crushed velvet sofa situation. (Ahem, Esher, I’m looking at you.)

Stepping inside, you're greeted by a symphony (some might argue, a cacophony) of Postmodern design infused with cosmic symbolism. Every room tells a story: ceilings adorned with star maps, staircases that spiral like galaxies, and intricate mosaics that mirror the complexities of the universe. It's literally far out.

The gardens are no less enchanting, blending earthly beauty with celestial themes. Winding paths lead you through lush landscapes dotted with sculptures and installations that reflect the cosmic narrative of the house. It's a seamless fusion of nature and design, where every element complements the next, creating a harmonious environment that feels both intimate and infinite. I also feel that the garden tethers the house to Earth, which is a cool tension as well!

Visiting the Cosmic House is like stepping into a living work of art—a place where creativity knows no bounds and every detail is crafted with intention and love. It is also the reason I love art and interiors SO much; these modalities and creations can take you to places you wouldn’t necessarily go without them. And that is so gorgeous. (And IMPORTANT!)

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a lover of the stars, or simply in search of something truly special, this remarkable house offers an experience that's as enlightening as it is delightful. It's not just a museum; it's a celebration of the beauty and mystery that surrounds us all.

It was just a joy to explore this house…I love London for many reasons (but I struggle there for pretty much one reason: the weather) and one of those reasons is the incredible mezcla of ideas, aesthetics, people, designs in such a small area! The Cosmic House is in Holland Park, which is not too far from Beata Heuman’s 188 Hammersmith, which is not too far from the William Morris’ Society, which is not too far from Chiswick Gardens, Kew Gardens, I mean, I could go on and on. There is so much to experience but I find it is hard to really know where to go if you don’t live there or know London (and what you like) well. Otherwise there is a lot of Madame Tussards and Hard Rock Cafe, which is a shame as London is such a vibrant, divine city. But it takes time to know where to go.

I do recommend trying to get tickets to The Cosmic House, its a great expansion of the mind for a weekday arvo. I do wish I could have outfitted the house with some Beaux though. (Punchy? 100%)

Normal transition here, Laura Vidrequin Roso is the November Beaux Curator and she has chosen such beautiful pieces that reflect her v cool style. I love having people who I love for their sharp eye come on and curate Beaux pieces…every curator is different and it is so exciting to see things in different ways.

Here are some of my fave from her curation:

Stay tuned for the next Beaux Was Here! Plus other bits and bobs in between. Thanks so much for reading!

xo Ashley , Founder