Croydon Colonnade, a covered footpath in south London, is a unique space that combines historical references with modern craftsmanship. Its design, considered down to the smallest detail, draws inspiration from two key elements: mid-20th century architecture and the majestic interior of Durham Cathedral.
Croydon Colonnade is located in the heart of the urban area, surrounded by buildings from the 1950s and 1960s. The architecture of these years left a lasting mark on the area – on the one hand, the elegant, orderly forms of the buildings created during the Festival of Britain (a national exhibition and fair that attracted millions of visitors across the UK in the summer of 1951), and on the other, the austere forms of Brutalism that dominated the architecture of the 1960s. In particular, the three-dimensional motifs characteristic of Brutalism became an important reference point for the shape and design of the colonnade. This fusion of two eras defined the design of the tiles that decorated this unique space.
The diamond motif, popular in brutalist constructions, clearly influenced the design of the tiles that decorate the colonnade, introducing dynamic geometric rhythms that enliven the space. In turn, a motif taken from the forms of the Festival of Britain, symbolising harmony and order, influenced the design of the ‘arrow’ tiles, creating an interesting contrast and dialogue between styles.
The second major reference for the Croydon Colonnade project was the famous nave of Durham Cathedral. This monumental space, known for its incredible rhythm and decorative diamond motifs and zigzags on the columns, was a direct inspiration for the architect. The colonnade’s design managed to reflect not only the rhythmic nature of the nave, but also the patterns that give the entire structure a distinct and elegant look. Alternative decorative motifs, taken from the cathedral, define the rhythm of the colonnade, attracting the attention of passers-by and introducing subtle references to classical forms of sacred architecture.
One of the key elements of the Croydon Colonnade design was to create a space that not only blends aesthetically with its surroundings, but also engages the senses of those moving through it. The introduction of a colour gradient was intended to connect the building to the ground in a subtle and harmonious way. At the eye level of passers-by, the intense glazes of the tiles introduce a rich, immersive atmosphere, creating an aesthetic connection between the architecture and those who pass it.
Originally, the design envisaged that the tiles would be white, but while working on the colonnade, it was decided to add colours to enrich the user experience. Instead of uniform white, rich blue colours appear at eye level to enliven the space and create a more intimate, personal connection with the architecture.
Each tile, although similar, differs from the others with minor imperfections that are the result of handmade production. The glaze is laid differently on the surface of each puzzle piece, giving it an organic feel. As a result, pedestrians walking through the colonnade experience a changing, living landscape that reveals ever-new details with every glance.
This approach to craftsmanship is a conscious defiance of the machine-finished surfaces that dominate contemporary architecture. Croydon Colonnade offers something very different – a depth of colour, texture and individuality that makes the daily journey through this space a pleasure full of surprises.
Designed by Adam Nathaniel Furman
Photography: Gareth Gardner
Also read: Architecture | Facade | Detail | Ceramics | UK | London
