Where art, architecture and heritage meet: STEMS at One Palace Green
As London's autumn art season draws to a close, we reflect on a special collaboration that brought contemporary creativity into one of the capital's most historically significant residences.
During London's Frieze Week, REDD was delighted to welcome STEMS by Eliza and Yunus to One Palace Green, Kensington Palace Gardens, for an exclusive contemporary art installation celebrating the relationship between art, architecture and heritage.
The installation offered an early glimpse into the creative world of STEMS, ahead of its wider exhibition launch in 2027. Set against the extraordinary backdrop of One Palace Green, the sculptural works created a striking dialogue between contemporary artistic expression and the craftsmanship of the Arts & Crafts movement.
A house with art at its heart
One Palace Green has long been associated with some of Britain's most influential creative figures. Originally designed by pioneering architect Philip Webb for artist and patron George Howard, later the 9th Earl of Carlisle, and his wife Rosalind, the Grade II* listed mansion was conceived as a celebration of art, design and craftsmanship.
Its remarkable interiors brought together the talents of William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones, establishing the house as an important part of London's artistic heritage.
Following five years of meticulous restoration by REDD, the building has been reimagined as six exceptional private residences, carefully balancing its historic character with the requirements of contemporary living.
A contemporary expression of creativity
The collaboration with STEMS provided an opportunity to introduce a new generation of artistic talent into a setting with such a rich creative history. Known for their distinctive sculptural approach, Eliza and Yunus explore the boundaries between art, design and craftsmanship, creating works that challenge conventional ideas of form and material.
Presented within One Palace Green's restored interiors, their contemporary pieces offered an intriguing contrast to the building's historic architectural details, while reflecting a shared appreciation for imagination, individuality and exceptional craftsmanship.
For REDD, the installation was particularly meaningful. Once a home to artists and patrons of the Arts & Crafts movement, One Palace Green once again became a setting for artistic expression, connecting its extraordinary past with contemporary creativity.
Continuing the artistic legacy
The collaboration reflects REDD's wider philosophy that the restoration of historically important buildings extends beyond the preservation of their physical fabric. It is equally about understanding their cultural significance and ensuring their stories continue to evolve.
As London's autumn art season comes to an end, the STEMS installation offered a timely reminder that great architecture and great art share an enduring ability to inspire, challenge and connect generations.
At One Palace Green, a new chapter in a 150-year artistic legacy is already unfolding.
