Liverpool Street Station
London
Following the successful conversion of several unique listed buildings, KDPA were approached to refurbish this grade 2 listed, former Victorian Ballroom, positioned on an enviable site within the main international London Terminus, on the edge of the financial centre.
A growing station and an evolving hotel complex meant, the ballroom space had lost almost all tangible links with the concourse. KDPA recognised an opportunity to re-establish its presence on the concourse as a continuation to the main forecourt elevation, with a wider aim to revitalise this forgotten corner of the station, capitalising on the large upper concourse footfall.
Strengthening relationships with both the station and the city, required the welcoming of a diverse clientele; Local workers stand alongside residents, travellers and tourists. A design strategy was required to embrace the much loved Public House values, whilst paying respect to the unique building and its location
From original friezes to finishes and lighting our aim was to combine each element to further enhance notions of theatrical grandeur- A celebration of the ballroom, the arrival to London or just the end of a day’s work… From here our concept grew.
Internal alterations were predominantly aimed towards enhancing the historical fabric, with a remodelled bar asserting itself as the new comer in the historic surrounding. This centrepiece, Clad in etched, mirror polished stainless steel forms a marriage between the old and new through reflections of the surrounding room.
Concealed lighting compliments the grand chandeliers, adding a quiet excitement to the building, accompanying customers in creating the spectacle of this grand hall.
The reorganised plan extends the customer area, to form an active façade opening out onto the station concourse, revealing an intimate interior.
Photography: © Pippa Hudson Photography