Fairbairn Hall

In 1930, Fairbairn Hall underwent a significant transformation. The original Fairbairn House, designed by FW Troup, had become too small for the bustling activities of the Mansfield University Settlement. The celebrated architect G. Grey Wornum, known for his work on the RIBA building, was commissioned to renovate and expand Fairbairn Hall. He collaborated with Louis de Soissons, creating a stunning blend of architectural styles. Wornum’s signature Art Deco touch is evident in the iron balustrade of the semi-circular stairwell. Soissons’ influence can be seen in the wood panelling found throughout the building. Miriam Wornum, a talented painter and designer, added her artistic flair with murals and paintings. The expansion included a larger sports facility at the back of the hall, a new Choral Hall on the ground floor, and “The Residence” on Avenons Road. This housed the Mansfield College students and social workers involved in the settlement. Fairbairn Hall was originally part of the Settlement Movement, a time when privileged individuals lived among the less fortunate to improve living conditions and integrate with the community. The hall, funded by Oxford University, became a vital community hub, offering a range of activities from sports to debates in their “Mansfield Parliament”. The infamous Fairbairn Boxing Club found a home here in the 1970s, adding another chapter to the hall’s rich history. Later, in the 1980s, Fairbairn Hall was converted into 29 residential units. The former canteen, chapel, theatre, library, gymnasium, and even the ping pong rooms were transformed into homes, marking a new era for this historic building. Today, Fairbairn Hall stands as a Grade II listed building, a testament to its architectural and historical significance in Newham. It serves as a reminder of the Settlement Movement’s impact and the vibrant community life that once thrived within its walls.