3-072-902 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Illustration showing proposed alterations and additions to the south elevation of 10, 11, and 12 Downing Street, Westminster, 1958. 10 Downing Street in London is the official residence and office of the prime minister of the United Kingdom. Number 11 is the official residence of the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Number 12 has been traditionally used as the office of the Chief Whip, although the upper floor forms part of the residential apartment for the Prime Minister. Number 10 was originally three properties: a mansion overlooking St James's Park called "the House at the Back", a town house behind it, and a cottage. The town house, from which the modern building gets its name, was one of several built by George Downing between 1682 and 1684.