10-08-2013 10:30 PM

Plans Unveiled For Crystal Palace Rebuild

Terrace view . Image © ZhongRong GroupUPDATE: Following ongoing discussions between the city of London and the Chinese ZhongRong Group, the plans for the Crystal Palace replica have finally been unveiled. Mayor of London, Boris Johnson said: “Today’s announcement marks an exciting new chapter for Crystal Palace Park,” adding, “Paxton’s stunning Crystal Palace was a beacon of innovation in the 19th century, encapsulating a spirit of invention which was to shape London and the world for generations to come. Since the iconic building was destroyed, the conundrum of what to do with the crumbling site has not been successfully resolved.” Until now.
Check out renderings and more information, after the break…
Aerial view . Image © ZhongRong GroupZhongRong Group’s design proposal includes an exact rebuilding of the Crystal Palace,*to contain international exhibitions spaces, hotel facilities, and art galleries, as well as the conservation of the park’s unique Victorian heritage. Johnson is convinced that the development “could not only see a world-class landmark building reinstated, [...] but the restoration of the entire surrounding park, bringing jobs and growth.”
Interior view. Image © ZhongRong GroupChairman of the ZhongRong Group, Ni Zhaoxing, agrees: “London is renowned across the world for its history and culture and the former Crystal Palace is celebrated in China as a magnificent achievement. This project is a once in a lifetime opportunity to bring its spirit back to life by recreating The Crystal Palace and restoring the park to its former glory to create a new and exciting destination for local people and international visitors.” Construction is scheduled to begin in winter 2015
Cafe view . Image © ZhongRong GroupThe glass and cast*iron*structure of the Crystal Palace was built in 1851; it was the largest glass structure in the world until its destruction in a fire in 1936. The prefabricated modular design by Sir Joseph Paxton, an architect and a gardner, was completed in Hyde Park by 5,000 workers in a mere five months. Paxton’s simple and brilliant design paved the way for more sophisticated pre-fabricated design, while creating an unprecedented exhibition facility, maximizing interior space and natural daylight.
The Crystal Palace, 1851. Image © wikiarquitectura



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