As part of the London-wide celebration of architecture this June, Crystal Palace and Penge are being highlighted as an official destination to host key cultural festivities.
The celebrations will showcase the local Victorian architecture that dates back to the world-famous Crystal Palace of the 1850s, with some of this architecture remaining prominent throughout the famous park and beyond into Penge. Such captivating history can be found in structures like the Grade II* listed Crystal Palace Subway, which is currently being regenerated so it can again be enjoyed by visitors and the local community. Additionally in Penge buildings like the Free Watermen and Lightermen’s Almshouses will be of keen architectural interest.
The exciting cultural programme will be delivered by the council in partnership with Penge SE20 BID and will include a curated route around interesting architectural locations in the area.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing said: “There is fabulous local architecture to celebrate in Crystal Palace and down into Penge. We are currently beginning our extensive regeneration programme to reinvigorate Crystal Palace Park and connect its venues to the local community and economy, and this festival will help to showcase these great spaces. This is also an opportunity to share some of Penge’s best-kept secrets, which is increasing its cultural offer day by day, with thanks to the Penge SE20 BID and the vibrant local community.”
Zoe Carr, Penge SE20 BID Manager said: “We are delighted to be involved in this festival and to showcase the great Victorian architecture that can be seen throughout Penge, including above our thriving high street, which now hosts a range of modern businesses connected to a growing and supportive local community. I hope visitors will take the chance to visit and find out why we are Penge and proud.”
Rosa Rogina, Director of LFA, said: “We’re thrilled to have Penge and Crystal Palace come on board as an London Festival of Architecture (LFA) destination for the first time, which is an important part of our efforts to engage with new neighbourhoods. In Common could not be a more appropriate theme – what do Londoners across different areas share, and what can we learn from our different geographies? We’re especially looking forward to our wayfinding project in Penge and Crystal Palace, linking key local landmarks and highlighting the history and creativity of the area.”
The London Festival of Architecture is an annual celebration of architecture and city-making, which takes place across London but with a focus on the chosen destinations each year. This is the first year an outer London borough has been chosen as a destination. More details will be announced about what is taking place in Bromley in due course.
ENDS
Editors’ notes:
The London Festival of Architecture is a month-long celebration of architecture and city-making, taking place every June across London. Their mission is to open up discussions around architecture, test new ideas and uncover and promote new talent, drawing together anyone with an interest in architecture and physical spaces. The theme for 2023 is #InCommon – inviting people to come together to discuss how we can improve our city by thinking about what we have in common – and what we don’t.
LFA are now accepting submissions for events. Head to https://londonfestivalofarchitecture.org/ to find out more about the festival and how to submit event.
For media enquiries, please contact James George, public affairs officer, on 020 8313 4565 or email james.george@bromley.gov.uk