Battersea Power Station

Wandsworth, Greater London

Civic Trust Awards Citation

The reopening of Battersea Power Station (BPS) marks a significant achievement following an eight-year restoration. 

The Grade II* listed building has been transformed into a unique, mixed-use destination encompassing 254 apartments, 565,000sq ft of office space, and over 100 shops, bars, restaurants, and leisure venues. The restoration of BPS stands out for its meticulous attention to detail, evident in the careful matching of new bricks to repair the original brickworks. The iconic power station, with its imposing mass and Art Deco splendour, has been revived with sophistication, featuring a fully restored control room now serving as an events space. The juxtaposition of the rugged power station aesthetic with the modern Apple reception and glass-wall climbing lifts in the main turbine hall creates a visually appealing contrast. The high-quality materials and sophisticated design of the shopping mall within the cavernous turbine hall contribute to the overall aesthetic, showcasing the successful integration of contemporary elements into the historic structure. The introduction of two bridges leading to a new promontory terrace on the river side enhances the overall experience and adds a thoughtful touch to the redesign. 

In terms of accessibility, seamless level access has been provided across the power station and public realm. The inclusion of accessible public spaces, approaches, entrances, and priority for pedestrians reflects a commitment to creating an inclusive environment. Notably, the accessibility extends to the chimney viewpoint, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to accommodating a wide range of visitors. The project’s sustainability efforts are commendable, with the decision not to demolish the building resulting in significant savings of embodied carbon, whilst contributing to the preservation of a historic structure. 

Battersea Power Station’s community impact is multifaceted. Beyond its inherent civic contribution as a historic landmark, the project has been embraced by the community, evident in the strong and rising footfall, turning the area into a weekend destination. The restoration project also played a role in enhancing connectivity, as seen with the northern line extension from Stockwell through Nine Elms to Battersea, making it more accessible for people to live and work in the vicinity.

Battersea Power Station is a successful restoration, combining architectural integrity, sustainability, accessibility, and community engagement.

Judges’ Comments: “The careful balance between preserving the historic character and introducing modern interventions has resulted in a landmark destination that not only honours the past but also embraces the future.”