Astoria, Recording studio on a houseboat in Hampton Court, United Kingdom
Astoria is a converted three-story houseboat permanently moored on the River Thames near Hampton Court Palace that serves as a recording studio. The vessel contains specialized recording equipment adapted to work within the constraints of a floating space.
Built in 1911 for impresario Fred Karno, the vessel originally accommodated a large orchestra for performances. David Gilmour acquired it in 1986 and transformed it into a recording studio.
The studio contributed to the recording of Pink Floyd's final three albums and multiple David Gilmour solo projects between 1986 and 2017.
Access to the houseboat involves walking along riverside walkways and gangplanks, which can be challenging during wet weather. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for compact interior spaces.
Large windows throughout the houseboat allow natural light and river views, contrasting sharply with typical windowless recording studios found on land. This open design gives musicians a different working environment from conventional facilities.
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