3-052-657 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The new Cavalry Barracks at Knightsbridge, [London], 1880. 'The buildings for the Household Cavalry which have been constructed on the site of the old barracks at Knightsbridge were occupied last week by the Royal Horse Guards (Blue), under Colonel Owen Williams...The building was superintended by Colonel E. C. Gordon, R.E. The designs were furnished by Mr. T. H. Wyatt, architect, and the contractor was Mr. G. Shaw. The style followed is an adaptation of the Italian, and viewed from Rotten-row the effect is very imposing...Besides the introduction of the most approved sanitary appliances, it is evident that the health and comfort both of man and horse have been studied to the utmost, the rooms and stables being large, well lighted, and ventilated. Above are baths and washhouses, lavatories, and a covered terrace for smokers. The married soldiers' quarters exhibit the same careful attention to detail, even to the providing of a covered playground for the children; every married soldier has the use of a suite of apartments, comprising sitting-room and kitchen, bed-room and scullery. There is a well-appointed canteen, and reading-rooms for non-commissioned officers and men, in which coffee bars have been placed'. From "Illustrated London News", 1880.