Eltham Palace, London

The art deco splendor of Stephen and Ginny Courtauld's ostentatious 1930's creation has recently been restored. The interior includes a gold mosaic bathroom, pink leather upholstery and an extravagant bamboo cage for the Courtaulds' pet ring-tailed lemur. Walnut and sycamore, marble and onyx are among the luxurious materials used in the decor. Eltham Palace's exterior is just as captivating with its moat, landscaped gardens and outdoor swimming pool. At the time of its construction, the technical gadgetry in the Piaget and Seeley designed Palace was meant as a showpiece - internal telephones, a broadcast music system, a centralized vacuuming system and under-floor heating. Eltham Palace was a decadent house where politicians, painters, explorers and minor royals were stylishly entertained. It was the epitome of 30s luxury, and will still impress you today.