Art Deco In London: 30 Famous Buildings, History, And Locations
Art Deco in London told through 30 famous buildings, from cinemas and Underground stations to hotels and offices. Learn their history and where to find them today.
Author:James RowleyJan 16, 20268.9K Shares498K Views
How Art Deco Shaped Modern London
Art Deco in Londonreflects a period when the city was adapting to modern life. During the 1920s and 1930s, new technology, transport, and ways of working created a need for buildings that felt modern, efficient, and reliable. Art Deco offered a clear and confident style that suited these changes.
London’s version of Art Deco is more practical and restrained than in other cities. Clean lines, balanced shapes, and limited decoration made it suitable for offices, cinemas, transport buildings, hotels, and housing.
The following examples highlight some of the most important and recognisable Art Deco buildings in London, explaining what makes each one unique and why this style became so widespread across the city.
1. Senate House
Location: Bloomsbury, WC1
Senate House is one of the most powerful examples of Art Deco in London, standing close to key institutions that shaped the city of Londonas a centre of learning and administration. Its design is bold and serious, with tall walls, straight lines, and very little decoration.
The building looks strong and solid, which was intentional. It was designed to represent knowledge, authority, and stability. Instead of using ornament, the architect relied on size, symmetry, and clean stone surfaces to create impact.
This building shows why Art Deco became popular in London for major institutions. During the 1930s, there was a need for buildings that looked modern but also reliable, especially in areas connected to governance and education across the city of London.
2. Hoover Building
Location: Perivale, West London
The Hoover Building is one of the most colourful and decorative Art Deco buildings in London. It uses bright colours, bold geometric shapes, and hint of decoration that makes it stand out. Unlike many British Art Deco buildings, it feels cheerful and playful. This was important because it was a factory, and the design was meant to improve morale and show pride in modern industry.
The building explains why Art Deco spread beyond city centres and into industrial areas. During the interwar years, companies wanted buildings that showed innovation and optimism. Art Deco allowed factories and workplaces to look modern and attractive, not dull or hidden.
3. BBC Broadcasting House
Location: Portland Place, W1
BBC Broadcasting House was built for radio, which was a new and powerful technology at the time. The building uses smooth stone, curved shapes, and clear lines to create a modern but official appearance. Its design suggests progress, communication, and national importance, without being overly decorative.
This building shows why Art Deco was ideal for new technologies. Radio changed how people received news and entertainment, and the BBC needed a building that looked modern and trustworthy. Art Deco provided a style that felt advanced and forward-thinking while still serious. This balance helped Art Deco spread across public and media buildings in London.
4. Daily Express Building
Location: Fleet Street, EC4
The Daily Express Building is one of the most striking Art Deco buildings in London. Its dark glass exterior, metal details, and smooth surfaces were inspired by American Art Deco. At the time, it looked completely different from surrounding stone and brick buildings, making a strong statement about modern journalism and speed.
This building shows how Art Deco became linked to business and media. Newspapers competed for attention, and architecture became part of that image. Art Deco allowed companies to look modern, fast, and confident. The Daily Express Building helped introduce a more international and glamorous side of Art Deco to London.
5. Eltham Palace
Location: Eltham, SE9
Eltham Palace is unusual because it mixes old and new. The outside connects to a medieval palace, but the interior was redesigned in full Art Deco style. Inside, there were modern materials, clean lines, and advanced features such as central heating and built-in technology, which were rare at the time.
This building shows how Art Deco moved into private life. Wealthy homeowners wanted modern comfort as well as style. Art Deco allowed homes to feel luxurious without being overly traditional. Eltham Palace demonstrates how the style was used to express modern living, comfort, and progress inside personal spaces.
6. Carreras Cigarette Factory
Location: Camden, NW1
The Carreras Cigarette Factory is famous for its Egyptian-inspired design. It uses symbols, colours, and shapes linked to ancient Egypt, which became popular after major archaeological discoveries. This shows how Art Deco often borrowed ideas from different cultures and transformed them into modern designs.
This building explains why Art Deco felt exciting and global. During the 1920s and 1930s, people were fascinated by travel, history, and new discoveries. Art Deco allowed architects to combine these influences with modern materials. As a result, buildings felt both modern and imaginative, helping the style spread widely.
7. Florin Court
Location: Charterhouse Square, EC1
Florin Courtis a residential Art Deco building with a curved shape and smooth exterior. Its design focuses on light, air, and comfort. The building looks modern without being decorative, using simple lines and balanced proportions to create a calm, elegant appearance.
This building shows why Art Deco worked well for housing. During the interwar period, cities needed better living conditions. Art Deco allowed apartments to feel modern, efficient, and pleasant. Florin Court reflects the idea that good design should improve everyday life, not just impress from the outside.
8. Ideal House
Location: Great West Road, NW9
Ideal House is a tall residential building with strong vertical lines and a clear, organised structure. Its design reflects efficiency and modern urban living. The building looks confident and practical, showing how Art Deco could be used to create modern homes in busy areas.
This building explains why Art Deco spread along major roads and growing districts. As London expanded, there was a need for high-density housing that felt modern and well planned. Art Deco offered a style that suited this growth, combining order, clarity, and a sense of progress.
9. DU Cane Court
Location: Balham, SW17
Du Cane Court is one of the largest apartment buildings in Europe. Its size is impressive, but its design remains simple and controlled. The clean lines, repetition of windows, and solid structure reflect Art Deco’s focus on function and scale.
This building shows how Art Deco helped solve housing problems. London’s population was growing, and large apartment blocks were needed. Art Deco allowed these buildings to look modern and respectable rather than crowded or chaotic. Du Cane Court represents how architecture was used to improve urban living.
10. Southgate Underground Station
Location: Southgate, N14
Southgate Underground Station has a circular shape and a flat roof that makes it look futuristic even today. Its design is simple, bold, and easy to recognise. The station feels open and modern, helping passengers move through the space easily.
This station explains why Art Deco became so important in public transport. The Underground was expanding, and stations needed a clear identity. Art Deco offered a modern style that made transport feel efficient and forward-looking. Southgate shows how Art Deco helped shape London as a modern, connected city.
11. Arnos Grove Underground Station
Location: Arnos Grove, N11
Arnos Grove Underground Station is best known for its large circular ticket hall, which creates a strong sense of space and order. The design is simple and easy to understand, with clean lines, smooth surfaces, and plenty of natural light. The circular shape was unusual at the time and made the station feel modern and welcoming rather than confusing or crowded.
This station shows why Art Deco became popular in public transport. London was expanding quickly, and many people were using the Underground every day. Art Deco offered a clear and practical design that helped people move easily through stations.
12. Sudbury Town Underground Station
Location: Sudbury, HA0
Sudbury Town Underground Station uses brick, glass, and long horizontal lines to create a calm and balanced appearance. The building feels solid and modern without heavy decoration. Its low shape fits well into the surrounding suburban area while still clearly looking like a modern transport building.
This station shows how Art Deco spread beyond central London. As suburbs grew, new stations were needed that felt modern but not out of place. Art Deco was flexible enough to work in quieter residential areas. Sudbury Town shows how the style helped bring a sense of progress to everyday neighbourhoods.
13. The Ritzy Cinema
Location: Brixton, SW2
The Ritzy Cinema is a local example of Art Deco used for community entertainment. Its design is bold but welcoming, with clean lines and simple decorative details that make it stand out without feeling grand or formal. The building was designed to attract local audiences and create a sense of excitement around cinema, which was becoming a popular part of everyday life.
This cinema shows why Art Deco spread into neighbourhoods across London. Entertainment was no longer only for the wealthy or central areas. Art Deco offered a modern style that worked well for local venues, helping them feel fresh, fashionable, and inviting. This helped the style become part of daily life for many people.
14. Oakwood Underground Station
Location: Oakwood, N14
Oakwood Underground Station is built using strong geometric forms and simple materials. The design is clear and logical, with a strong focus on function rather than decoration. Entrances, windows, and internal spaces are easy to recognise and use.
This station explains why Art Deco worked so well for everyday buildings. London needed transport spaces that were reliable and efficient. Art Deco provided a modern style that could be repeated across many locations while remaining easy to understand. Oakwood reflects this practical strength.
15. East Finchley Underground Station
Location: East Finchley, N2
East Finchley Underground Station stands out because it combines architecture with public art. A well-known Art Deco sculpture on the outside gives the station a strong identity. The building itself uses bold shapes and vertical lines, making it feel confident and modern.
This station shows how Art Deco allowed buildings to communicate ideas, not just function. Transport buildings were meant to represent progress and modern life. By combining art and architecture, East Finchley shows how Art Deco made public spaces more meaningful and memorable.
16. 55 Broadway
Location: Westminster, SW1
55 Broadway was built as the headquarters of London Underground. The building combines clean Art Deco lines with a modern office layout. Sculptures built into the exterior add interest without overwhelming the structure, giving it both authority and character.
This building shows why Art Deco suited large organisations. Public bodies needed buildings that looked modern, organised, and trustworthy. Art Deco allowed offices to feel efficient and forward-looking while still serious. 55 Broadway reflects how architecture helped build public confidence.
17. The Troxy
Location: Limehouse, E1
The Troxy was originally built as a cinema and later became a performance venue. Its interior is large and dramatic, designed to impress visitors from the moment they entered. Curves, scale, and decorative details create a sense of excitement and escape.
This building shows why Art Deco became closely linked to entertainment. During the interwar years, cinemas and theatres were places of relief and enjoyment. Art Deco helped create spaces that felt special and modern, making entertainment venues an important part of the style’s success.
18. The Former Firestone Factory (partial Remains)
Location: Brentford, TW8
The Firestone Factory was once one of the most impressive Art Deco industrial buildings in London. It featured strong geometric shapes, smooth surfaces, and decorative details that made it visually striking. Even though most of the building was demolished, it is still remembered as an important example of how Art Deco was used in industry.
This factory shows why Art Deco was popular for industrial buildings. Companies wanted factories that represented progress, quality, and modern production. Art Deco allowed industrial sites to look confident and forward-looking rather than hidden or purely functional. This helped improve public image and worker pride.
19. The Granada Cinema (former)
Location: Tooting, SW17
The Granada Cinema in Tooting combined Art Deco with exotic and decorative influences. Inside, the design created a rich and dramatic atmosphere, making cinema visits feel special and different from everyday life. The building was designed to transport audiences into another world.
This cinema explains why Art Deco became closely linked to escape and fantasy. During difficult economic times, people wanted places where they could relax and forget daily concerns. Art Deco allowed cinemas to create exciting, imaginative spaces, helping the style spread quickly through entertainment architecture.
20. Chiswick Park Buildings (Art Deco Phases)
Location: Chiswick, W4
Several buildings in Chiswick Park reflect Art Deco design used for offices. These buildings use clean lines, balanced proportions, and simple decoration to create professional and modern workspaces. The design feels organised and calm, helping businesses appear efficient and reliable.
These buildings show why Art Deco became popular in business districts. Companies in the 1930s wanted offices that reflected modern management and progress. Art Deco offered a style that looked contemporary without being excessive, making it ideal for corporate environments and helping it spread widely.
21. Lupus Street Estate
Location: Pimlico, SW1
The Lupus Street Estate uses Art Deco elements in social housing, including clean lines, symmetry, and practical layouts. The buildings were designed to provide better living conditions, with attention to light, space, and order rather than decoration.
This estate shows how Art Deco was applied to improve everyday living. As London addressed housing shortages, there was a need for modern, affordable homes. Art Deco offered a style that was practical, modern, and dignified, helping it spread into public housing and everyday residential areas.
22. Carlton Cinema
Location: Kensal Green, NW10
The Carlton Cinema is a smaller but classic example of Art Deco cinema design. Its curved walls, geometric details, and welcoming entrance create a friendly and familiar atmosphere. The design feels modern without being overwhelming.
This cinema shows how Art Deco worked at a local level. Not every Art Deco building was large or luxurious. The style was well suited to neighbourhood buildings, helping cinemas feel modern and inviting. This helped Art Deco spread widely across London communities.
23. The Criterion Restaurant (Art Deco Interior Phases)
Location: Piccadilly Circus, W1
Although the Criterion Restaurant is older in structure, parts of its interior were redesigned using Art Deco style. These spaces use geometric patterns, carefully planned lighting, and smooth surfaces to create a modern dining atmosphere. The design makes the space feel stylish without being overwhelming.
This restaurant shows how Art Deco influenced social life and dining culture. Eating out was becoming more common, and restaurants wanted interiors that felt modern and exciting. Art Deco allowed designers to shape mood and atmosphere through light, shape, and layout. This helped the style spread beyond buildings and into interior design.
24. Shell Mex House
Location: Strand, WC2
Shell Mex House is a large office building with a clean façade and strong horizontal lines. Its size and clarity reflect the importance of major companies during the interwar period. The building feels organised, solid, and modern.
This building explains why Art Deco worked well for corporate architecture. Businesses wanted buildings that showed strength and reliability. Art Deco offered a modern image without unnecessary decoration. Shell Mex House shows how architecture supported corporate identity.
25. The Empress State Building
Location: Earls Court, SW6
The Empress State Building is tall and simple, with strong vertical lines and minimal decoration. Its design was influenced by skyscraper-style Art Deco, adapted to suit London’s planning limits. The result feels modern but controlled.
This building shows how international Art Deco ideas reached London. While London did not build skyscrapers like New York, it adopted similar styles in a more restrained way. The Empress State Building reflects global influence adapted to local needs.
26. Bush House
Location: Aldwych, WC2
Bush House was designed as a centre for international communication and business. Its Art Deco style uses symmetry, clean lines, and solid materials to express confidence and global ambition.
This building shows how Art Deco became linked to London’s international role. As a global city, London used architecture to express modern identity. Art Deco provided a style that worked across borders, helping it spread in business and media buildings.
27. Victoria Coach Station
Location: Victoria, SW1
Victoria Coach Station was built to organise long-distance travel. Its Art Deco design balances decoration with clear movement and structure. The building helps passengers move easily while still feeling modern and well planned.
This station shows how Art Deco supported expanding travel systems. As travel became more common, buildings needed to manage large numbers of people. Art Deco offered a practical style that still felt modern and welcoming.
28. Hammersmith Apollo
Location: Hammersmith, W6
The Hammersmith Apollo is an entertainment venue with strong curves and dramatic interior details. Its design creates excitement and gives the building a strong visual identity.
This venue shows why Art Deco worked so well for performance spaces. Music, theatre, and cinema were central to social life. Art Deco helped venues feel energetic, modern, and memorable, which is why the style remained popular for public entertainment.
29. The Strand Palace Hotel
Location: Strand, WC2
The Strand Palace Hotel was built in the 1930s and is a strong example of Art Deco used in large hospitality buildings. Its design focused on comfort, clear layout, and modern facilities for travellers. Instead of heavy decoration, the building used clean lines, symmetry, and practical spaces to create a calm and efficient hotel environment.
This hotel shows why Art Deco became popular in travel and hospitality. During the interwar years, more people were travelling for work and leisure. Hotels needed to feel modern, organised, and reliable. Art Deco offered a style that looked up to date while still being practical, which helped it spread widely in hotels across London.
30. The Berkeley Hotel (Art Deco Elements)
Location: Knightsbridge, SW1
Parts of the Berkeley Hotel reflect Art Deco design, especially in its interiors and overall layout. The style uses balance, symmetry, and refined materials to create a feeling of quiet elegance. Decoration is controlled, focusing on quality rather than excess. These design qualities are one of the reasons the Berkeley is often mentioned among the best luxury hotels in London, where comfort and style are carefully balanced.
This hotel shows how Art Deco entered high-end hospitality. Wealthy guests wanted modern comfort rather than traditional heavy decoration. Art Deco offered a style that felt luxurious but also fresh and practical. This made it popular in hotels that wanted to appear modern while still offering a sense of prestige.
Preservation Efforts
Many Art Deco buildings face threats from development and modernization. Organizations work to protect these structures through listing and conservation efforts. Some buildings received legal protection as Grade I or Grade II listed structures. Public awareness campaigns help people appreciate the historical and architectural value of these buildings.
Visiting Art Deco Sites
Exploring London's Art Deco heritage requires planning, as many buildings remain in private use. Some locations offer public access during specific hours or through guided tours. The Hoover Building's ground floor shops welcome visitors, while Eltham Palace operates as a museum with regular opening hours. Walking tours focusing on Art Deco architecture provide expert insights and access to multiple sites.
The Legacy Of Art Deco
Art Deco influenced British design beyond architecture. The style appeared in furniture, jewelry, textiles, and graphic design throughout the period. London's Art Deco buildings represent a specific moment in history when optimism and modernity shaped the built environment. These structures continue to inspire contemporary designers and architects who appreciate clean lines and decorative craftsmanship.
Experiencing Art Deco Today
Modern Londoners and visitors can still experience authentic Art Deco spaces. Several restaurants and bars maintain original 1930s interiors. The Beaufort Bar at the Savoy recreates the Art Deco aesthetic with careful attention to period details. Some office buildings allow public access to their Art Deco lobbies during business hours.
Tips For Your Art Deco Walking Tour
Plan Your Route
To make the most of your Art Deco tour, plan your route in advance. Central London houses a concentration of Art Deco landmarks, but some sites are dispersed, so consider using public transport between locations. For a picturesque detour, consider visiting Albert Bridge, which offers a stunning view, especially at night. Create a flexible itinerary that allows you to explore each building at your own pace.
Check Opening Hours
Many Art Deco buildings, such as 55 Broadway, have restricted access. Verify opening hours and visitor information before you go. Some landmarks may offer special tours or events that provide deeper insights into their history and design.
Bring A Camera
Art Deco architecture offers a wealth of visual appeal. Bring a camera to capture the intricate details and vibrant colors that define this style. While photography may be restricted in some locations, the exterior and public spaces offer ample opportunities for memorable shots.
Respect Private Property
Some Art Deco buildings are private properties and not open to the public. Always respect signage and boundaries, and avoid attempting to enter restricted areas. If you’re looking to combine your architectural exploration with some shopping, Oxford Streetis nearby and offers a wide range of stores. Enjoy the architecture from the public vantage points provided.
People Also Ask
What Is Art Deco Architecture?
Art Deco is a design style that became popular in the 1920s and 1930s. It is known for clean lines, geometric shapes, and a modern look. In London, Art Deco often focuses on function and balance rather than heavy decoration.
Why Is Art Deco So Common In London?
Art Deco became popular during a time when London was expanding and modernising. New transport systems, offices, cinemas, and housing were needed. Art Deco offered a modern style that was practical, affordable, and suitable for many types of buildings.
How Is London’s Art Deco Different From Other Cities?
London’s Art Deco is more restrained than in cities like New York or Paris. Buildings usually have simpler decoration and focus more on structure, proportion, and everyday use.
Which Parts Of London Have The Most Art Deco Buildings?
Art Deco buildings can be found across the city, but strong concentrations appear in central London, along Underground lines built in the 1930s, and in some suburban areas developed between the wars.
Are Art Deco Buildings In London Protected?
Many Art Deco buildings are listed and protected due to their architectural and historical value. This helps ensure they are preserved for future generations.
Can People Go Inside Art Deco Buildings In London?
Yes. Many Art Deco buildings are still in use as Underground stations, hotels, offices, cinemas, and housing. Access depends on the building’s function.
Final Thoughts
Art Deco in London shows how architecture responded to a city moving into the modern age. During the interwar years, this style offered a balance between progress and practicality, shaping buildings that were efficient, confident, and suited to everyday life. From transport hubs and workplaces to cinemas, hotels, and housing, Art Deco became part of how London functioned.
Many of these buildings are still used today, proving the lasting value of the style. Their clean lines, clear layouts, and careful design continue to work well in a busy city. Together, they form an important part of London’s built history and help explain how the city developed its modern identity.
Jump to
How Art Deco Shaped Modern London
1. Senate House
2. Hoover Building
3. BBC Broadcasting House
4. Daily Express Building
5. Eltham Palace
6. Carreras Cigarette Factory
7. Florin Court
8. Ideal House
9. DU Cane Court
10. Southgate Underground Station
11. Arnos Grove Underground Station
12. Sudbury Town Underground Station
13. The Ritzy Cinema
14. Oakwood Underground Station
15. East Finchley Underground Station
16. 55 Broadway
17. The Troxy
18. The Former Firestone Factory (partial Remains)
19. The Granada Cinema (former)
20. Chiswick Park Buildings (Art Deco Phases)
21. Lupus Street Estate
22. Carlton Cinema
23. The Criterion Restaurant (Art Deco Interior Phases)
24. Shell Mex House
25. The Empress State Building
26. Bush House
27. Victoria Coach Station
28. Hammersmith Apollo
29. The Strand Palace Hotel
30. The Berkeley Hotel (Art Deco Elements)
Preservation Efforts
Visiting Art Deco Sites
The Legacy Of Art Deco
Experiencing Art Deco Today
Tips For Your Art Deco Walking Tour
People Also Ask
Final Thoughts
James Rowley
Author
James Rowley is a London-based writer and urban explorer specialising in the city’s cultural geography. For over 15 years, he has documented the living history of London's neighbourhoods through immersive, first-hand reporting and original photography. His work foregrounds verified sources and street-level detail, helping readers look past tourist clichés to truly understand the character of a place.
His features and analysis have appeared in established travel and heritage publications. A passionate advocate for responsible, research-led tourism, James is an active member of several professional travel-writing associations.
His guiding principle is simple: offer clear, current, verifiable advice that helps readers see the capital with informed eyes.
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