Here at Valkyrie, we have a client who lives near to the Battersea Power Station (BPS) and another who owns an apartment in the main BPS complex. We are regular visitors to the area and site. Since the development started, we have witnessed (almost on a daily basis) its remarkable transformation.
Originally designed by architect Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, Battersea Power Station was built in two stages which externally form a seamless and near symmetrical whole, but internally are designed in two distinct styles. Battersea A, which completed in 1935 is in the Art Deco style prevalent at that time, while Battersea B, which completed in 1955, reflects the post war austerity with its industrial utilitarian design.
At their peak, the iconic turbines supplied a fifth of London’s electricity, including some of the capital’s most recognisable addresses such as Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament. The Power Station was fully decommissioned in 1983.
As a child, I remember walking around the derelict area and to me, it felt dark and depressing. Now, however, the redevelopment is amazing and has created a significant boost to the UK economy, craftsmanship and suppliers have been sourced from all corners of the country as part of the Power Station’s restoration. Thousands of jobs have been created for the construction and design industries as part of the building’s restoration, and over 2,500 jobs will be created once the Power Station opens to the public this autumn.
The transformation of the site is truly amazing. We would certainly recommend a visit, especially as there is now a new Underground Station that serves the power station via the Northern Line!
