Elephant & Castle

Walworth Town Hall, a Grade II* listed building located near Elephant & Castle in London, has been meticulously revitalized into a vibrant community and workspace hub. Originally constructed in 1865, the building suffered significant fire damage in 2013, leading to its inclusion on Historic England’s “Heritage at Risk” register. The recent restoration, completed in 2024, has breathed new life into this historic structure.

The redevelopment encompasses approximately 50,000 square feet, offering a mix of flexible studios and workspaces designed to support over 550 workers, particularly targeting independent and creative businesses. The central atrium has been transformed into a dynamic lobby area, serving as the heart of the building and providing an ideal space for collaboration and community engagement. A new entrance on the north side enhances connectivity to the surrounding area, opening onto Walworth Square.

In addition to workspaces, the town hall now features a public café and a community center, fostering a sense of community and providing spaces for events, seminars, and leisure activities. The restoration carefully preserved the building’s rich heritage, with significant historical features like the council chamber and main staircase being meticulously restored. Where new structural interventions were necessary, sustainable materials such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) were utilized, aligning the building’s future with contemporary standards of sustainability.

The rejuvenation of Walworth Town Hall stands as a testament to its rich past and a beacon of possibility for what lies ahead, seamlessly blending historical preservation with modern functionality to serve both the local community and the broader city.