After three years of ambitious restoration on the East Wing, much of Alexandra Palace’s East Yard and Theatre—closed for over 80 years—have reopened. This extensive restoration was funded by the Heritage Lottery Foundation and the Haringey Council. The revival of the Victoria Theatre and East Wing breathes new life into this iconic building, seamlessly integrating modern technology to restore its status as a vital theatre and cultural venue in London.
These spaces, once overlooked, hold their own unique charm and historical significance. The grand East Yard, located opposite the Palm Grove to the west, was historically a magnificent exhibition space, integral to the Victorian era’s vibrant culture of dances and spectacles. This 19th-century theatre, unseen for over 80 years, carries a powerful sense of time and atmosphere—a true “rediscovery” after decades of neglect and devastating fires in 1980.
The newly reopened spaces support and expand Alexandra Palace’s diverse cultural programming, offering fresh ways for the public to engage with the “People’s Palace.” As a welcoming public venue, the East Yard is open daily, featuring a café and a Creative Learning Zone designed for visiting school groups. This area is celebrated for fostering creativity, education, and public entertainment. Visitors can explore the rich history and colorful personalities associated with Alexandra Palace, while creating their own memorable experiences.
Matt Somerville, partner at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, commented: “Upon our arrival, it was immediately clear that the unique and intriguing historical features made these spaces—especially the theatre—a truly one-of-a-kind venue. Across its history, it has served as a theatre, cinema, BBC prop store, and then was abandoned, all of which are reflected in the building’s fabric. This creates a space with strong character.”
“During the transformation and regeneration process, we focused on enabling the theatre to accommodate a wider variety of uses than ever before, while keeping most of the technical upgrades discreetly behind the scenes. Above all, preserving the space’s character and the tangible connection to 140 years of history was essential. We added a unique narrative layer to this rich legacy, contributing to the many stories this place holds.”
Drawings
Ground Floor Plan
Sectional View – Hall
Sectional View – Theatre
Project Information
Architect: Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios
Location: London, UK
Category: Historical Preservation
Building Area: 5,920 m²
Year of Completion: 2018
Photographers: Keith Armstrong, Richard Battye, Lloyd Winters
Suppliers: Desso, Armitage Shanks, Gerriets, Valchromat (Investwood), Allgood
Structural Engineer: Alan Baxter & Associates
Theatre Design: Charcoalblue
Acoustics: Max Fordham
Mechanical & Electrical: Max Fordham
Construction Consultant: Mott MacDonald
Technical Consultant: John Burke Associates
Fire Engineering: The Fire Surgery
Construction Contractor: Willmott Dixon Construction
Internal Carpentry (stairs, panels, doors): Suffolk & Essex Joinery
Metal Staircases & Handrails: Wilcox Fabrics
Gypsum Restoration & Protection: Stonewest
Stone Cleaning & Repair: AVV Solutions
Floor Coating: Horizontal
Internal Fine Wood Repairs: Avi Contracts
Wooden Products & Flooring: PMJ Construction
External Carpentry & Sash Window Conservation (BIM Engineering): Elevation
Glass Metal Doors & Screens: Fineline
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