The Adam Houses

The Adam Houses Review

Only a few structures remain of what was once a regal riverfront row of houses on a 3-acre site, but such is their quality that they are worth a detour off the Strand. The work of 18th-century Scottish architects and interior designers (John, Robert, James, and William Adam, known collectively as the Adam brothers), the original development was damaged in the 19th century during the building of the embankment, and mostly demolished in 1936 to be replaced by an art deco tower. The original houses still standing are protected, and give a glimpse of their former grandeur. Nos. 1-4 Robert Street and Nos. 7 and 10 Adam Street are the best.

Royal Society of Arts. At the Royal Society of Arts, you can sometimes see a suite of Adam rooms; ring ahead to check. 8 John Adam St., WC2N 6EZ. 020/7451-6847. www.thersa.org. Free. Tube: Charing Cross, Embankment.