Although the Prince enjoyed showing Lillie off, he decided that he wanted to have somewhere that they could get away from prying eyes where they could relax and be themselves.

He bought a plot of land in a secluded area of Bournemouth's East Cliff and told her that she could design a home for them.

Where others would have preferred jewellery and gowns Lillie was very practical and considered land and property to have lasting value.

Lillie enjoyed designing the romantic royal lovenest, adding personal touches. The foundation stone shows ELL (Emilie LeBreton Langtry) and 1877. The kings chamber had a lofty ceiling specially designed to disperse his cigar smoke. The walls featured original paintings and their love of the theatre was reflected in the huge carved oak fireplace which featured hand painted tiles with scenes from Shakespeare in blue and white enamel with gold leaf.

On the outside wall of the Kings room the motto 'Dulce Domum' Sweet Home and on the other side of the building 'Stet Fortuna Domus' (may fortune attend those who dwell here).