Southwark Travelodge
This eight story hotel creates a dynamic new presence along Union Street, the main pedestrian route from Southwark Station to Tate Modern at Bankside. The building incorporates two very different elevational languages which relate directly to the surrounding context. DMA's objective was to achieve a design that would not compete with the Palestra, but rather pick up on Palestra's nuances and rhythm to create a landmark building in its own right. This has been achieved by using silver metal clad modules with blue vertical trims in a staggered rhythm. A corner projection fronting Union and Gambia Streets adds further interest. The rear elevations fronting rail viaducts have been designed as robust brick facades with regimented windows framed with blue metal hoods. At street level the building features a tall glazed ground floor designed as sub-divisible commercial outlets. Internally the spaces are conceived as a "donut" form around a central courtyard and accommodate 202 bedrooms, a bar and restaurant facilities.
“The combination of a specialist hotel knowledge without losing commercial reality is second to none. Our sector is based on efficiency and maximising returns, a philosophy that DMA embraces, reflected in the fact that in some instances DMA have "found" up to 15% extra bedrooms within the same envelope produced by their competitors."
Rob Ryan
Travelodge
