Toynbee Hall

Toynbee Hall, founded as a University Settlement by Canon Barnett in the 1880’s, was repaired from a derelict condition and converted and extended to re-establish it as the premier conference venue concerned with issues of social welfare. The extraordinary surviving original aesthetic interiors as well as the Grade II listed Tudor brick building, so at odds with the rough surroundings of Whitechapel, have been conserved and restored.

Old and new buildings are linked by a corridor running along the rear of the old building, revealing the history of its construction. We designed a new, highly energy efficient additional space to the main Tudor-gothic style building which reflects the style and materials of the existing building. The project has new spaces for community use, facilities, staff for offices, catering facilities and museum rooms which showcase the history and work of the charity.

Our specialist knowledge allows us to successfully adapt public buildings to allow extended uses, involving the resolution of complicated issues of access, fire protection, heating, lighting, and the provision of ancillary visitor and community facilities.