The childhood home of David Bowie in Bromley, south London, is set to open to the public for the first time by the end of 2027, following a restoration project. The Heritage of London Trust has acquired the two-up, two-down house at 4 Plaistow Grove, where Bowie lived from 1955 to 1968, with plans to restore it to its 1963 appearance.
The house will feature never-before-seen archival items, including Bowie's copies of the Observer's books on music and architecture, with his handwritten exam results and the name 'David Jones Jr' inside. A photograph of his hero Little Richard, which he cut out aged 10 or 11 and kept throughout his life, will be returned to its original spot on the bedroom wall.
Bowie's teenage bedroom, measuring about 9ft x 10ft, will offer an immersive experience. In 1990, Bowie recalled spending much of his time there, describing it as his 'entire world'. The restoration is curated by Geoffrey Marsh, co-curator of the V&A's David Bowie Is exhibition, with conservation architects Julian Harrap.
The project is funded initially by a £500,000 grant from the Jones Day Foundation, with a public fundraising campaign beginning this month. The house will also host creative workshops for young people, inspired by Bowie's Arts Lab movement, run by the trust's Proud Places scheme.
Friends including artist George Underwood and actor Dana Gillespie have contributed memories. Underwood famously punched Bowie at school, causing his mismatched irises. Gillespie recalled being served tuna sandwiches during visits. A public consultation will take place on the proposed changes.
