The facade of London’s first ever residential tower block is to receive a makeover, bdonline.co.uk reports. Grade II-listed Great Arthur House – situated at the Barbican in London – was designed by Chamberlain, Powell and Bon in 1951. The revolutionary building comprises 120 flats over 16 storeys and was the first to reach over 50 metres in height.

Image source

Distinctive bright yellow exterior

Hailed a ‘landmark’ in the ‘London Design Guide 2012′, according to verygoodandproper.co.uk, Great Arthur House is the only one on the Golden Lane Estate to receive an outward revamp so far. Its currently bright yellow exterior certainly renders the building distinctive.

Image source

Building cladding refurbishment

John Robertson Architects have been selected to carry out the building cladding project, which will include external redecorations, the replacement of a curtain wall system and some minor concrete repairs. Additionally, residents will be treated to upgraded front doors and new windows.

Image source

Planning application to be submitted in early 2013

Key stakeholders include English Heritage, design protection group, the 20th Century Society and Great Arthur House residents. They will all be heavily consulted before a planning application is submitted early next year. It is hoped that work could begin later in 2013.

Mr Robertson said:

“The design challenge is to replace the existing single glazed curtain wall with a new double glazed wall and still match the elegant proportions of the existing wall.”

Author: Elizabeth Smythe Date Written: 01 August 2012