Timber Heritage Doors Enrich South London Restoration

Preserving History and Enhancing Architecture at South London Gallery Fire Station

In the heart of South London, the transformation of a former Victorian fire station into the captivating South London Gallery (SLG) Fire Station has rekindled the area's artistic spirit. This renowned contemporary art gallery, a beloved cultural institution, has expanded its footprint through a thoughtful restoration that highlights the heritage of the building and introduces inviting spaces for creative exploration.

A Glimpse into the Restoration

The South London Gallery Fire Station, located just steps away from the main SLG building on Peckham Road, has emerged as a remarkable annex. This visionary project, undertaken by 6a architects, has effectively doubled the gallery's size, presenting an additional 425m² of public space. Through this transformation, the gallery's facilities have been expanded to include an archive gallery, exhibition spaces, community facilities, education spaces, and even an artists’ studio, all thoughtfully designed to elevate visitors' experiences.

Reviving Victorian Elegance

This project's significance lies not only in its architectural prowess but also in its historical roots. The original fire station, dating back to 1867, served as a testament to Victorian Gothic architecture. Originally designed by Edward Cresy Jr, the building housed fire brigade officers and their families alongside operational spaces.

Over time, the building transitioned from a fire station to various uses, even serving as a butchery factory. However, in 2014, the SLG was given the building to revitalise it into a hub for artistic and cultural enrichment. This endeavour was made possible through funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, Arts Council England, and the Mayor’s London Regeneration Fund.

Architectural Symphony: The Restoration Process

6a architects undertook the restoration with utmost respect for the building's historical character. Though structurally sound, the building required extensive restoration due to water damage and dry rot. The design aimed to retain the original layout and scale while introducing brighter and more inviting spaces.

A new light-filled atrium was a central addition to the design, bringing a sense of openness to the interior. An iconic feature of the restoration is the gault brick façade on Peckham Road, meticulously repaired to its former glory. The main entrance, a striking aspect of the restoration, was reinstated with splendid double doors, custom-crafted by Gowercroft Joinery, known for their exquisite work on heritage projects.

Timber Heritage Doors: A Testament to Craftsmanship

Central to the restoration's success are the timber heritage doors that stand as a testament to both history and innovation. Gowercroft Joinery's skillful craftsmanship brought these doors to life, harmonising the heritage aesthetics with modern functionality. Weighing approximately 250kgs each, these solid timber double doors were engineered with precision to maintain their authenticity while offering optimal performance.

These timber heritage doors, made from sustainable Accoya® timber, embody energy efficiency and durability. The exterior's timeless black finish, coupled with energy-efficient glazing, seamlessly contrasts with the interior's clean white aesthetics. These doors have not only restored the building's original entrance but have also breathed new life into the spaces within.

Celebrating Heritage, Fostering Art

Since its opening in September 2018, the South London Gallery Fire Station has garnered acclaim for its sensitive restoration and architectural brilliance. This restoration has successfully achieved a delicate balance between historical preservation and modern innovation, resulting in a space that exudes elegance and charm.

As a hub for artistic expression, education, and community engagement, the gallery continues to build on its legacy. By embracing the past and embracing the future, the South London Gallery Fire Station has become not just an architectural marvel but a beacon of culture and creativity for London and beyond.

Margot Heller, the Director of South London Gallery, aptly summarises the project's essence: “Gowercroft Joinery’s recreation of the original Victorian fire station doors have helped to bring this distinctive and historic building back to life. Our expansion into this Fire Station has been truly transformative for the South London Gallery, enabling us to undertake a major step change in the scope and impact of our artistic and education programmes, championing the importance of art and culture in a new public space that is free to all at a time of rapid change in the local area.”

Experience Art and History Unite at the South London Gallery Fire Station. Explore the Heritage Timber Doors that Bridge Time and Craftsmanship.