Gallery: London’s Metal-Clad Tow...

Bringing the old town hall in East London back from dormancy meant not just fixing it up, but giving the abandoned historic building a fresh new identity. The property was first constructed in 1910, however after an extensive addition in 1937 the building fell on hard times -- until its recent renovation into a modern hotel and conference center. Rare Architects looked closely at the heritage of the building while developing a modern interior and a striking skin composed of laser-cut metal. The result is an unusual synthesis of art deco and modern design that bravely crosses the centennial span of the celebrated building.