King Charles Puts His Touch on 'One of the Biggest Upheavals’ in Royal History

King Charles III has taken the reins on what some are calling "one of the biggest upheavals" in royal history, putting his own spin on ongoing renovations at the family's most recognizable property, which are entering their final stage.  

After the Emir of Qatar's official state visit to Buckingham Palace next month, the famed royal residence will reportedly not host any other foreign dignitaries for several years, as the majority of its most extravagant rooms will be closed as a result of the ongoing work, which, according to  The Times , is projected to cost £369 million, last a decade, and defer all state visits to a secondary location.

🤩🤩 SIGN UP for Parade's Trending News newsletter & we'll keep you in the know on the viral pop culture moments & celebrity news everyone is talking about 🗞️🗞️

King Charles has already moved out of his private office space in the north wing of the building, which previously served as  Queen Elizabeth II's private apartment. He settled into the Belgian Suite, situated on the ground floor of the palace's west-facing Garden Wing, according to the publication. 

The 76-year-old monarch is said to be funding the changes being made to his private suite himself, with sources close to him telling the publication that he is "mindful that the public purse should not pay for personal touches." Taxpayers are, however, funding the rest of the renovations, which, according to the palace's official website , include updating the electrical cabling, plumbing, and heating, which have not been changed since the 1950s. 

"The building's infrastructure is in urgent need of a complete overhaul to prevent long-term damage to the building and its contents," a statement on the site reads.

The renovations first began in April 2017, under Queen Elizabeth's reign, and are taking place in phases that are expected to "realise a series of long term financial and environmental benefits, as well as improvements to visitor access." Working in phases also allows the Palace to "remain occupied and fully operational for the duration," though Charles and his wife,  Queen Consort Camilla , have been living at nearby Clarence House. 

According to The Times ' report, it's currently unclear if they will move in when renovations are complete or if they will remain at the smaller residence. 

Next:  Denzel Washington Recalls King Charles' Frank Opinion of His Movies During First Meeting