William, Kate to move into Kensington Palace this week

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Press Trust of India London
Last Updated : Sep 30 2013 | 4:06 PM IST
Prince William and wife Kate Middleton along with their new born son Prince George are set to move into their home at Kensington Palace this week after a 1.5 million pounds overhaul of the property.
William and Kate have spent the past fortnight at Balmoral with baby George, enjoying "quality time" with the Queen, Prince Philip, Charles and Camilla, the Daily Express reported.
But as workmen put the finishing touches to the 1.5 million pounds renovations that lasted for two years, the couple are returning to London to start family life in their first "proper" home.
"They can't wait," a friend was quoted as saying by the daily.
"They are so looking forward to getting the place how they want it and being settled," the friend said.
Within days they will move into the four-storey 20-room apartment 1A, which once belonged to Princess Margaret, who died in 2002, the report said.
It has five reception rooms, three main bedrooms, dressing rooms and bathrooms, a night and day nursery, staff bedrooms and "ancillary rooms".
Plenty of room in other words for the pair's Italian housekeeper Antonella Fresolone, nanny Jessie Webb, and Kate's parents Michael and Carole or sister Pippa when they stay over to babysit.
Around 1 million pounds were spent to fit new wiring, remove asbestos and repair the roof of the Sir Christopher Wren-designed Clock Tower wing.
Unlike the neighbouring apartment where William and Harry grew up, 1A has a large secluded garden.
It is believed that the Queen gave Kate permission to choose priceless antiques from the Royal Collection to furnish her new home.
Kate, who has a history of art degree, has overseen the decorations herself and, encouraged by Prince Charles, has done without outside advice so that she can "stamp her personality" on the home.
She has been spotted shopping for fabrics in the upmarket Chelsea Design Centre, but has also been seen in department stores like Peter Jones in Sloane Square.
"It's a big task but Kate is confident in her own taste and style and knows what she wants," a friend said.
The cost of interior decorating and soft furnishings are being met by the royal family.
A modern kitchen has been installed, and an environmentally-friendly heating and hot water system.
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First Published: Sep 30 2013 | 4:06 PM IST

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