Set across the seventh and eighth floors of the building formerly home to the BBC, have completed the interiors of the Television Centre penthouse. The Grade ll listed circular Helios structure contains an ‘architect’s series’ of apartments across its upper floors, distributed by developer Stanhope to a curated selection of designers and architects to demonstrate their creative prowess. The resulting interiors show the versatility of modern architecture, including a tribute to the 1970s by , Retrouvius and Bella Freud, and a living gallery ‘art apartment’ by Laura Fulmine and Haptic Architects.
Taking lead from the post-war origins of the Television Centre, Waldo Works followed a concept of British modernity imbued with eclectic colours and objects. The 1951 Festival of Britain was a key influence, an event which celebrated the nation’s restoration and the resurgence of architecture, design, science and arts following the travesties of WWll. The festival graphics depicted sound waves, broadcasting towers and the pure geometries that defined the period.
At 377sqm, the penthouse is the largest residence in the building. The striking, minimalist entryway is crafted around a black steel spiral staircase. Enhancing its dramatic form is a double helix-shaped paper sculpture by artist , mounted on the adjacent wall and working its way to the upper level. A circular deep red table with sunset toned lamp aids in domesticizing the stark space. Patterns, textures and layouts throughout reference back to the curves of sound waves, strong lines of broadcasting towers, and pixelation of early television.
Shapely, curved elements distinguish the communal living areas on the upper level. The main lounge features laser-cut curtains, rounded armchairs and a semi-circular sofa. A dining room adjacent to the kitchen is anchored by a teal-blue table and full height fireplace, while the kitchen maintains the jet black cabinetry outfitted by the original architects. A corridor leads to more discreet and snug rooms, such as a second sitting area with dark blue wallpaper and a herringbone sofa, a study with brass-topped desk, and den with patterned daybeds and a shelf overflowing with plants.
Each of the four bedrooms represents a specific interpretation of the apartment’s geometric motif. One children’s bedroom features gridded wallpaper, multi-coloured chequered textiles, and green globular lamps. The grand master suite features an exposing floor-to-ceiling window; in order to make the space feel cosier, the designers implemented a four poster-inspired Douglas fir and hessian box frame that the bed tucks into.
The penthouse also features four private terraces. A west-facing terrace spans the entire length of the upper floor, while the south-facing one affords impressive views of the London skyline.
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