Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, is infusing her interior design skills into decorating her family’s new forever home at Forest Lodge. The royal couple, Prince William and Kate Middleton, welcomed German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and first lady Elke Büdenbender during an official state visit on December 3, 2025, where Kate shared insights into their recent move.
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During the visit, a lip-reading expert revealed that Kate and the first lady discussed the Wales family’s relocation to Forest Lodge in Windsor. Expressing her delight at the move, Büdenbender acknowledged the couple’s new abode, prompting Kate to share that they have created “mood boards” for the new home and have renovation plans post the Christmas holidays.
The Cambridge family consisting of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, along with Kate and William, made the transition to Forest Lodge during the children’s school half-term break in October. As the festive season approaches, the family is settling into their new residence, which is intended to be their permanent home even after William ascends the throne.
Known for her elegant decor tastes, Kate has previously undertaken significant interior design projects in their various royal residences. Forest Lodge presents a new canvas for Kate to showcase her signature “contemporary classic” style, with plans for the mansion including a grand antique dining table that can seat 24 guests for future family gatherings.
To gather inspiration and furnishings for their new abode, Princess Kate visited Marina Mills, a family-run business in Cuxton that has supplied hand-printed furnishings to prestigious royal establishments like Buckingham Palace and Clarence House. This attention to detail and penchant for quality craftsmanship will likely result in a tastefully decorated home for the royal family.
Prince William, while acknowledging the challenges of the recent move, shared with the president that they are managing the transition. The couple has a 20-year lease on Forest Lodge from the Crown Estate, where they will pay market rent. Initial minor renovations have also been privately funded by the royal couple, emphasizing their commitment to make Forest Lodge their long-term residence.
With eight bedrooms in the Georgian mansion, the Cambridge family has ample space for growth and entertaining extended family members. The move to Forest Lodge signifies a new chapter for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, as they settle into their “forever home” with plans to create a warm and welcoming living space for their growing family.
As Kate meticulously plans the interior decor of Forest Lodge with mood boards and designer visits, royal watchers eagerly anticipate the unveiling of the finished design. The combination of Kate’s refined taste, attention to detail, and commitment to creating a comfortable family home sets the stage for a beautifully decorated and inviting living space for the future King and Queen of England.