Queen Mary, University of London: People´s Palace

It is not often that architects are invited to refurbish a 1930’s grade II listed Art Deco theatre / picture palace. But as our first commission for Queen Mary: University of London, this is what Berman Guedes Stretton has been asked to do.

Built to replace the original Victorian People´s Palace which was destroyed by fire in 1931, the building was a significant East London venue. In the late 1950’s the theatre was bought by Queen Mary College and was adapted to re-orientate the entrance away from Mile End Road and towards the growing college campus. Further alterations to the front of house space removed some original functions.

Queen Mary, University of London: People´s Palace

However, the auditorium and stage are almost entirely in their original 1930´s form. Berman Guedes Stretton are proceeding with the detailed design of the refurbishment which will include the replacement of the bar and increasing foyer space, as well as returning the auditorium to it’s former glory.

Applications for planning and listed building consent have been submitted to allow works to commence during 2011 so that the venue will be available for events during the 2012 Olympics.

Queen Mary, University of London: People´s Palace

Client: Queen Mary - University of London, London
Completion: Due 2012