Projects

Diorama

Client
The Diorama Estates Ltd.

Size
42,403 sq ft

Location
London

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After sitting empty for several years, the client needed to revitalise this London landmark and achieve planning permission for modern-day office space. As the last surviving Diorama in the world, the heritage team navigated the complex planning process of restoring a prestigious building.

Offering unparalled views over nearby Regent’s Park, and in a prime central London location, this Diorama was a precursor to a modern-day cinema and is part of a row of Regency townhouses. A Grade I listed building in a conservation area, the space needed to be restored to its former glory with enhanced historic features and extended office space. We studied archives to identify the building’s original layout and how it had changed since the 1820s.

The approved plans increased this high-quality office space to over 42,000 sq ft with striking characteristics such as a large rotunda in the centre of the building and a roof level extension. We also achieved permission to convert two neighbouring townhouses back to their original use as residential homes.