ebulletin

December 18, 2025
A successful example of adaptive reuse
The Standard, London is a boutique hotel located in the King’s Cross area of London, created through the adaptive reuse of an existing building. Originally constructed in 1974 as the Camden Town Hall Annexe, the structure is a notable example of Brutalist architecture from the 1970s.
The transformation of the building into a hotel was completed in 2019 following an extensive refurbishment. The exterior renovation was led by Orms Architects, while Archer Humphryes oversaw the interior architecture and Shawn Hausman Design was responsible for the interior design. Together, these teams preserved the building’s bold Brutalist character while reimagining it for contemporary hospitality use.

One of the hotel’s most striking features is its bright red external lift, which runs dramatically up the side of the building and has become an iconic visual element. Inside, the design draws heavily on 1970s influences, blending retro details with modern finishes to create a distinctive and playful atmosphere.
The Standard, London offers 266 guest rooms in a variety of layouts, reflecting the building’s original structure while providing modern comfort. The project stands as a successful example of adaptive reuse, celebrating architectural heritage while introducing a fresh and vibrant destination in the heart of King’s Cross. (Reported by Building.hk)

(The Standard, London)