Join Chloe Marshall (HawkinsBrown) and Tara Hudson (Hackney Council) for this very special tour of the newly refurbished public spaces of Hackney Town Hall, a fine example of a high quality municipal architecture, rich in local memories. Originally completed in 1937 to designs by Lanchester and Lodge, the building is grade II listed in recognition of its largely intact Art Deco interiors.
After 80 years of intensive use including a 10-year restoration programme, the project has rejuvenated and modernised the building as part of a wider masterplan for the London Borough of Hackney. Working closely with Hackney Council, English Heritage and Hackney Conservation Department, HawkinsBrown architects have led the works involving a dedicated team and many specialist craftspeople.
The works were carried out in overlapping phases allowing the town hall to remain functional throughout. The building has been subtly remodelled, upgraded to current standards and regulations and new technology and infrastructure has been installed. It is more energy efficient, sustainable and manageable.
New function spaces have been created within the original footprint including two new atria. The building occupancy has been greatly increased and new council services housed.
The works were recently completed in late 2017 and have since been shortlisted for several awards.