Aluminium Art Deco Architectural Elements The Architectural Forum

One of our biggest recent projects has been refurbishing a collection of early twentieth-century aluminium elements from the facade of a prominent Oxford Street building. The architectural cladding adorned a block of buildings that were once Drage’s Department Store at 69-89 Oxford Street in Central London. 

Distinctly Art Deco in design, the building featured these striking decorative panels, painted a surprising candy pink in contrast to the dark grey ‘Swedish blue’ granite stone of the facade. Abstract, graphic, and with wave-like patterns, the panels gave a sense of movement and joy to the linear, austere architecture. We are now in the process of restoring the panels to their original ‘silvered’ polished finish. 

The building was sadly demolished in 2016 to make way for new development, despite both English Heritage and the Twentieth Century Society campaigning for its protection. Architect Gordon Jeeves was involved in the creation of many important London landmarks from this interwar period such as the National Radiator Building, Berkeley Square House, Dolphin Square, and the Earls Court Exhibition Centre. 

The saved decorative elements are a testament to the dramatic and distinctive Art Deco style of the original building. In a collection of varying sizes and featuring a range of different patterns, the panels are perfect for creative reuse as interior or exterior elements. 

Sections can be sold separately. Please enquire to check stock and prices.