Ever wondered about London’s first skyscraper? That’s 55 Broadway. This isn’t just any building. It’s a Grade I listed art deco masterpiece. We are standing before a testament to architectural ambition and artistic expression.
55 Broadway was built between 1927 and 1929. It was commissioned as the headquarters for the Underground Electric Railways Company of London Limited. Architect Charles Holden designed this iconic structure. He’s also known for the University of London’s Senate House and many tube stations.
At 53 metres tall, 55 Broadway briefly held the title of London’s tallest office block. Holden’s Senate House surpassed it in the mid-1930s. The building’s cruciform shape is unique. It allows ample light to flood its many floors.
Look closely at the facade. You will spot sculptures that caused quite a stir. Sir Jacob Epstein created matching sculptures called ‘Day and Night’. Some critics objected to the nudity, especially on ‘Day’. To appease them, Epstein shaved 1.5 inches off the male figure’s appendage. Above the sixth floor, eight figurative reliefs represent ‘the four winds’. Six different sculptors, including Henry Moore, created these.
Before, there were Hidden London tours. Now, imagine stepping into the lobby. Travertine marble adorns the space. Art deco details are everywhere. Walnut panelling, metal lighting, and bronze doors enhance the interior. Keep an eye out for the star burst motif. It’s engraved into the marble walls.
Originally, the building had many floors. Each floor was uniform. Corridors went off in all directions. White marble water fountains stood on each floor but are now out of use. A Cutler mailing chute allowed employees to send post. Senior employees enjoyed higher offices and dining halls with stunning detailing. Executives even had access to four roof gardens. One offered views of Westminster, including Big Ben and the London Eye. The rectangle spiral staircase was a decorative fire escape with art deco features.
55 Broadway faced a terrifying moment during World War II. On October 14, 1940, a bomb struck the ninth floor. It exploded on the fifth floor. The west wing suffered significant damage. Fortunately, no one in the building died. Tragically, 68 people died sheltering in Balham tube station that same night. Repairs occurred in the 1950s. The missing Portland Stone was replaced in 1963.
The building changed hands over the years. London Transport occupied it from 1933 to 1984. Then, London Regional Transport took over from 1984 to 2000. Transport for London occupied 55 Broadway from 2000 to 2020. TfL sold the building to Integrity International Group for over £120 million.
Today, 55 Broadway is poised for a new chapter. The Integrity International Group aims to open it for public benefit. They plan to create a high-quality hotel. This will cherish its heritage. It will contribute to the local economy.
So, the next time you pass 55 Broadway, remember its story. It’s a story of architectural innovation, artistic controversy, and wartime resilience. It’s a building that embodies London’s dynamic spirit.