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Soho Lodge to be restored for summer
Ruth Bloomfield20.04.09
ONE of Soho's most famous landmarks is to be restored to its former glory.
It was announced today that the semi-derelict Soho Lodge, the Tudor-style Grade II listed summerhouse in the heart of the square, is being restored.
The £170,000 project is being carried out by HOK Architects - the firm which also worked on plans for the Olympic stadium - and is due to be finished this summer.
When complete, it will be used as a base for the square's gardeners. The summerhouse was built in 1875, but some of its oak timbers date back to the 17th century. The work will involve renovating the original frame and repairing its decaying beams. The roof will be replaced with a mixture of salvaged and traditional clay tiles.
Robert Davis, Westminster council's deputy leader, said: "This project will ensure the restoration of a much-loved and historic part of Soho and ensure the area retains its unique charm and character."
Project manager Tony Barnard added: "This is a small and uniquely fascinating project."
Reader views (8)
Well this is nothing compared to another bit of history itself, Prince Charles, to visit Scotland for a weekend to view a golf game and costing us taxpayers 20K. He is not even playing! Maybe we should restore him too?
- Prata Kosong, London
I understand what you're saying Nigel, and I share enthusiasm for it to be kept, but £170k for the work needed seems faintly ridiculous.
(Also, it's a late 19th century building, not 17th - though it certainly looks like one...).
- John, London
It's a great place to take a break and I often used to have my lunch there before attending the West End theatres.
- Mike Melbourne, Bedford England
That's one expensive shed!
- Paul, London
They just need to restore the rest of the square now.
The flower beds are looking tired and need replanting because most of the shrubs are dying.
- Alex Moro, Pimlico, London
170k for a 1 roomed gardners shed.... That can't be right?
- Mark, St Albans
£170,000 isn't unreasonable for restoring a listed building using 17th-century technology. It's specialist work. The average builder or even carpenter wouldn't have a clue what to do with large oak beams etc.
Whether it's value for money or a bit of heritage that should be demolished and replaced by a modern shed, you'll have to judge for yourself. Personally I'd rather see this lovable building preserved than much of the "conceptual art" in the Tate Modern.
- Nigel, London
£170,000?
- David, London
