Existing Victorian buildings in Netherhall Gardens were used from 1952. The first phase of purpose-built accommodation was completed in 1966 and opened by HM Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.
The Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, HE Chief Emeka Anyaoku laid a foundation stone for the second and definitive phase of modern building in 1993, and the completed project was inaugurated by HRH the Duchess of Kent in 1995.
In June 2002 and again in September 2002, hundreds of residents and former residents attended celebrations at Netherhall marking the 50th anniversary of the opening of the House.