Exploring Margate: A Coastal Gem with Stories to Tell

I don’t fully know what the allure of a British kitsch seaside town is for me, but its nostalgic. I do think it has some association with me being born and growing up in the ‘land locked’ midlands.

Yesterday would have been my dad’s 89th birthday, and its almost 10 years since his passing. So the kids and I decided to have a trip to Margate, the main reason was to see ‘Resistance’ exhibition that was curated by Steve McQueen, but also just to take a chill.

Margate's charm lies in its contrasts. It's a place where historic landmarks meet contemporary art, where the tranquility of the sea coexists with the buzz of creative energy. Whether you're exploring the Old Town's vintage shops, relaxing on the sandy beaches, or delving into the stories told at the Turner Contemporary, Margate offers something for everyone.

Nestled on the southeastern coast of England, Margate is a town that effortlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant, modern-day charm. Known for its sandy beaches, quirky shops, and artistic flair, Margate has become a favorite destination for those seeking a seaside escape with a twist. Let’s dive into some of the town's highlights, including the iconic Arlington House Apartments, the Turner Contemporary Museum, and the thought-provoking "Resistance" exhibition by Steve McQueen.

Arlington House Apartments: A Brutalist Landmark

Standing tall on Margate's skyline, Arlington House Apartments is a striking example of Brutalist architecture. Built in the 1960s, this 18-story residential block has been both celebrated and criticized for its bold design. While some view it as an eyesore, others appreciate its unique wave-like structure that offers stunning sea views from every apartment. Despite its controversial reputation, Arlington House remains an integral part of Margate's identity, symbolizing the town's resilience and adaptability through changing times. I love the place.

Dreamland in Margate: A Nostalgic Wonderland by the Sea

Nestled on the shores of Margate, Dreamland is more than just an amusement park—it's a time capsule of joy, creativity, and timeless fun. Having opened in the early 20th century, this iconic seaside attraction has become a symbol of British leisure, combining classic charm with modern vibrancy.

From its beautifully restored vintage rides, like the Scenic Railway (the UK's oldest wooden roller coaster), to contemporary attractions and art installations, Dreamland strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation. The park isn't just for thrill-seekers, though. Its open-air events, live music performances, and pop-up exhibitions make it a hub of creativity and culture, attracting visitors of all ages.

Dreamland is also a feast for the eyes. The retro-style signage, the pastel hues of the rides, and the carnival-like ambiance are a photographer's paradise. Whether you're capturing the spinning teacups or the glowing lights of the Ferris wheel at dusk, every corner feels like a story waiting to be told.

For foodies, the park boasts a variety of dining options, from traditional seaside fish and chips to trendy vegan eats. Pair this with the backdrop of the sun setting over the Margate coastline, and you've got a picture-perfect day out.

Dreamland isn't just a destination; it's an experience. It's a place where childhood memories are rekindled and new ones are created. If you're planning a visit to Margate, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this whimsical world by the sea.

Turner Contemporary Museum: A Beacon of Creativity

Margate's artistic soul shines brightly at the Turner Contemporary Museum. Named after the renowned painter J.M.W. Turner, who found inspiration in Margate's dramatic skies, this museum is a hub for contemporary art and cultural dialogue. Its sleek, modern design contrasts beautifully with the historic charm of the town, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The museum's exhibitions often challenge perceptions and spark conversations, embodying Turner's belief in art as a catalyst for change.

Resistance by Steve McQueen: A Journey Through Protest

I appreciate that Margate is on the North East Kent coastline, making in pretty much a schlep for alot of folk, but "Resistance" curated by the acclaimed filmmaker and artist Steve McQueen IS A MUST. This powerful collection of nearly 200 black-and-white photographs chronicles a century of protest in Britain, from the suffrage movement to the anti-Iraq war demonstrations.

Through these images, McQueen captures the spirit of resistance and the role of photography in shaping social change. The exhibition is a poignant reminder of the struggles and triumphs that have defined modern Britain, making it an essential experience for visitors.

Until next time, keep snapping

Brutal

With the pending release of ‘The Brutalist’ film at the cinema, my son and I decided to head upto London, after dusting down one of my archived Brutalist photowalks, from Google My Maps.

Our trip into town was tailored, as the train from Brighton was delayed at Croydon, due to the perennial, ‘essential weekend engineering works’. So we jumped in the car, drove to Hounslow West Tube station, and headed in on the Piccadilly line. The was as awkward and unsightly, as Brutalist architectiture is to some…….?

We didn’t get into town too early and could only visit a couple of locations.

It's a word that often evokes strong reactions, conjuring images of imposing concrete structures, stark lines, and a sense of utilitarian severity. For some, it's an eyesore; for others, a raw and honest expression of architectural ambition. As a photographer, I find myself drawn to its dramatic forms, its sheer scale, and the stories etched into its weathered surfaces. And nowhere is this fascination more potent than in London's Trellick Tower and the nearby Alexandra & Ainsworth Estate.

Brutalism is an architectural movement that emerged in the mid-20th century and is characterized by its stark, rugged forms and raw concrete construction. Love it or loathe it, Brutalism stands as a testament to a bold architectural vision that sought to redefine urban living. Two iconic examples of this movement in London are Trellick Tower and the Alexandra & Ainsworth Estate.

Trellick Tower: A Vertical City

Designed by the Hungarian architect Ernő Goldfinger, Trellick Tower is one of the most recognizable Brutalist structures in London. Completed in 1972, this 31-storey residential building looms over West London, its distinctive silhouette visible for miles.

Goldfinger envisioned Trellick Tower as a vertical city, with communal spaces such as laundries, nurseries, and shops integrated into the design. The tower's bold, unapologetic use of raw concrete and its imposing height make it a striking subject for photography. From the sharp angles of its balconies to the play of light and shadow on its rough surfaces, Trellick Tower offers endless opportunities for capturing the essence of Brutalism.

The Nerdy Bit

One of the main reasons for my interest in film photography, is the allure of the process. I enjoy the sedate pace. I also hate the clinical aspect of ‘modern’ lens and the digital effeciency.

I started using my 28mm Rokkor Minolta lens on my Sony A7iii, with the K&F adaptor, I have full (slow) manual focus on the camera. I love the tone of the images it creates. There is a mild preset edit in LrC.

Alexandra & Ainsworth Estate: A Concrete Symphony

In stark contrast to the verticality of Trellick Tower, the Alexandra & Ainsworth Estate, designed by Neave Brown, sprawls horizontally across Camden. Completed in 1978, the estate is renowned for its sweeping, terraced design that follows the natural contours of the land.

The estate's curvilinear forms and stepped terraces are a testament to Brown's vision of creating a sense of community within an urban environment. The rough concrete exteriors and geometric lines provide a unique canvas for photographers. Capturing the repetitive patterns of the terraces, the interplay of light and shadow, and the way the estate integrates with its surroundings can yield compelling images that speak to the heart of Brutalist architecture.

This is most definately a work in progress project, hopefully the journey will be alot easier in the future.

Until next time, keep snapping.

Camber Sands: A Seaside Story of Shifting Sands

While the summer months bring the majority of visitors to British seaside destinations, a beach possesses a unique charm during the off-season.

I decided to visit Camber Sands, and carry on some more new film photography in 2025, tim really enjoying this new vein of enthusiasm.

I decided on taking my Leica M6, loaded with my trusted Kodak 5222 / Double X and my large format 4x5 camera, The Chamonix 45n2 with some Fomapan 400. Both of these films are my trusted film choices. I buy the former in 400 ft bulk reels that I pre-load onto 30 exposure rolls. The latter constitutes the best value for 4x5 film, where 50 sheet boxes can be bought off the interweb for around £40. This coupled with my chosen black and white developer - Kodak hc110 - at dilution b (1:31), is about the best and most prudent and cost effective workflow that there is.

I’m at a crossroads as to what I'll actually shoot in the spring and summer of 2025, having not bought any colour film since my Kodak 250d 400 ft bulk reels purchase in 2023. Not only the cost of the film but the cost of the c41 developer kit. I may decide to just stick with black and white workflow above, let's see.

Camber’s vast expanse of sand feels even more expansive when devoid of crowds, and the winter storms can create dramatic landscapes.

This is a location that I regularly pass through, on my jaunts to Dungeness.

The dunes, often overlooked in summer, become a haven for walkers and nature enthusiasts. The crisp air and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore offer a sense of tranquility and peace that is hard to find elsewhere.

The Decline of a British Seaside Icon

Camber Sands, with its vast expanse of golden sand and rolling dunes, has long been a beloved destination for British holidaymakers. Generations of families have flocked to this East Sussex gem, seeking sun, sea, and traditional seaside fun. However, the recent closure of the Pontins holiday park has cast a shadow over the area, raising questions about the future of this once-vibrant coastal resort.

A History of Holidaymaking

Camber Sands' history as a tourist destination dates back to the Victorian era, when the arrival of the railway made coastal getaways more accessible. The beach's natural beauty and expansive sands drew visitors in search of relaxation and recreation. In the mid-20th century, holiday camps like Butlins and Pontins emerged, offering affordable package holidays that catered to working-class families. These camps became synonymous with the British seaside experience, providing entertainment, activities, and self-catering accommodation.

This is a complete contrast to the scenes broadcast from Barcelona, with local squirting water at tourists, with a populous movement of tourists go home, as a action towards over tourism, the shortage of housing (with Airbnb rentals sitting unoccupied for the majority of the year).

The Rise and Fall of Pontins

The Pontins holiday park at Camber Sands was a mainstay of the resort for decades. Its chalets, amusement arcades, and entertainment venues provided countless holiday memories for families. However, as travel trends changed and competition from overseas destinations increased, the park began to decline. In recent years, it faced criticism for its outdated facilities and lack of investment. The closure of the park in 2023 marked a significant turning point for Camber Sands, leaving a void in the local economy and raising concerns about the area's future.

I would love to take a work around the Interior of the site, it has an eerie atmosphere to it, akin to The Overlook Hotel in The Shining.

Whilst it was bitterly cold last Saturday, I thoroughly enjoyed the break to Camber and the visit to this part of the quirky Kent coast.

Until next time, keep snapping.

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Barcelona, is it over?

Barcelona, is a vibrant Spanish metropolis, which has been a magnet for tourists for decades.

The kids and I undertook our visit to this tourist hotspot in August 2022, as part of my 50th birthday celebrations.

The city's love affair with tourism may be facing a turning point. Local authorities are actively seeking to curb visitor numbers, with news this week that the plan is a cessation of ‘Airbnb style’ short term rentals in the city, by 2028.

This story in part, has started with local squirting tourists, with water pistols filled with water.

Biting the hand that feeds you? Or is this a drastic measure a necessary step for a city struggling to breathe?

Strains on the City:

Spain sees some 85.1m visitors pa, of which 12.4m visiting Barcelona.  The proposed plan on holiday rentals, would return c. 10,000 properties to the indigenous population for primary resident use.

Barcelona's immense popularity has undeniable downsides. Residents complain of overcrowded streets, rising rents fueled by short-term rentals, and a strain on local infrastructure. The city's unique character can be lost as tourist shops and restaurants replace local businesses.

Taking Back Control:

Discussions include limiting cruise ships, restricting hotel development, and promoting alternative destinations within Catalonia. This shift in focus aims to improve the quality of life for residents and ensure a more sustainable future for the city.

Tourism, Redefined:

Barcelona's move doesn't signal the end of tourism. Instead, it's a call for a different kind of tourism. The focus might shift towards attracting visitors who appreciate Barcelona's cultural heritage and architectural beauty, and who contribute positively to the local economy.

The Road Ahead:

While some hail Barcelona's initiative, others fear economic repercussions. Striking the right balance between tourism and livability is crucial. Barcelona's experiment will be closely watched, with the potential to reshape the conversation around tourism in popular destinations worldwide.

Whilst its clear that the tourism pilgrimage to Barcelona is generally bottlenecked into the 2, if not 1 season (Summer or Spring / Summer), here are some interesting numbers comparing Barcelona with London: 

Tourist Tale of Two Cities: Barcelona vs. London

While both Barcelona and London are major tourist hubs, their stories differ in scale and recent trends. Here's a comparison based on available statistics:

Visitor Numbers:

• London: As of 2023, London held the title of the most searched-for global tourist destination [most searched for global tourist destination ON standard.co.uk]. Though exact visitor numbers can be tricky to pin down due to different methodologies, estimates suggest London attracts well over 20 million visitors annually.

• Barcelona: Pre-pandemic figures show Barcelona receiving around 12.4 million visitors a year [STATISTA tourism barcelona ON statista.com]. While this is a substantial number, it falls short of London's massive tourist influx.

Length of Stay:

• London: Data suggests shorter stays are becoming more common in London, with a third of trips lasting only 3-4 days [most searched for global tourist destination ON standard.co.uk]. This trend aligns with "city break" style tourism, focused on short, action-packed visits.

• Barcelona: Barcelona might see slightly longer stays on average. While specific data is harder to find, the city's focus on cultural experiences and beach getaways could encourage visitors to linger a bit longer.

Tourist Spending:

• London: London benefits from a diverse tourist base, with visitors coming from all corners of the globe. This can lead to a wider range of spending habits.

• Barcelona: Recent reports show a promising trend for Barcelona. While visitor numbers might be dipping slightly, the average tourist spends more (€1,263 in May 2024). This suggests a shift towards a higher-value tourism model in Barcelona.

Local Impact:

• Both Cities: Both London and Barcelona grapple with the impact of tourism on residents. Housing affordability is a major concern, with rising rents due in part to short-term rentals.

• Key Differences: However, the scale of the issue might be more pronounced in Barcelona due to its smaller size. The sheer volume of tourists in a more compact city center can put a strain on infrastructure and contribute to a feeling of inauthenticity.

Barcelona could potentially strike a balance that promotes responsible tourism while safeguarding the city's well-being for the years ahead.

Lets hope so, as it’s a city I would very much like to visit in the future.

Until next time, keep snapping.

Tons of Folks, AKA Folkestone

Had a lovely start to the weekend yesterday, up nice and early at 07:00 having a lovely morning coffee and editing photos, giving the website a minor refresh adding some new products to the store.

My daughter - having surpassed my expectations in approach and preparation to her GCSE’s - is starting her summer holiday, with a camping trip to wales, with her friends.

We decided to jump in the car and head over to Folkestone, for a dad / daughter day, photowalk, shoppping and some seafood at in the harbour.

Folkestone is a little gem of a spot and somewhere, with its charming harbor and vibrant streets, is the perfect destination for a day trip.

Both my kids are audiophiles, where my sons tastes are as broad I as have known, but my daughter possibly takes the edge, with her lust for live performance and festivals. I was given a sample of Declan McKenna and ‘Brazil’. This is a protest song, regarding the awarding of the 2014 World Cup to Brazil.

Ok granted, a fine tune.

Not only does my daughter and I share a (very) similar music taste and political stance, I considered my counter, the lure of Billy Bragg was to obvious, so I countered with Flag Day, the 1985 debut of The Housemartins. I loved this band was I was younger, never thought the bass player - Norman Cook - would go far?

Folkestone's harbor buzzed with activity. We opted for a seafood lunch, savoring fresh fish and chips while watching bobbing boats and colorful lifebuoys. Refueled and ready to explore, we ventured into the heart of the town.

Folkestone is a haven for independent shops. We browsed unique boutiques, stopping to admire everything from handcrafted jewelry to vintage clothing. My daughter, a budding fashionista, found a one-of-a-kind dress that she absolutely loved.

By the end of the day, we were both happy and exhausted and our arms laden with shopping bags. Folkestone's delightful blend of seaside charm, fresh flavors, and quirky shops makes it a perfect destination for a memorable Dad / daughter outing.

Turning full circle?

Capturing the Everyday: Rediscovering Street Photography on my Commute with the Google Pixel 8 Pro

11/01/2023

Today’s blog post is eery. its a little over 13 years ago, with a simple iPhone 4 smartphone in my hand, that I started to document my daily commute to London. The primary objective was to avoid the mundane and avoid the negativity of the other commuters ‘getting my day off to a bad start’.

By 2012, I then started a theme of covering the 2012 London olympics, it was at this time that I received an unsolicited email from Nokia, asking me to use their then new Nokia Pureview 808 smartphone, to post to my twitter account.

One thing led to another, and it ultimately led to me +1 being given hospitality tickets by Nokia, to cover the V Festival with the Nokia Pureview, in the summer of 2012. This was the event where The Stone Roses headlined.

This video is my blogpost at the time, uploaded to my tumblr account, reviewing the smartphone:

Today, I find myself turning full circle, if you will. I now use full frame digital cameras and a selection of film cameras, to take images to sell on my website and Etsy Store. However, now that the pandemic is a distant memory, and I have to be back in the office 2 days a week, I’m back to the ‘bump and grind’ of a weekly commute.

I’ve been an android user for 10 years now, and have normally elected for a budget to mid range smartphone, which is generally coupled with a crap (read substandard) camera. After much debate and consideration, I decided to upgrade my phone to …………

………… the incredibly powerful Google Pixel 8 Pro smartphone, equipped with a camera that rivals many prosumer DSLRs. It's time to rediscover the artistic adventure that first sparked my love for photography and capture the essence of my surroundings in ways I couldn't have imagined back then.

A Journey Through Time

Commuting to work can be monotonous, but I've always been fascinated by the stories the streets can tell. From the bustling crowds to the unexpected moments of beauty and serendipity, street photography allows me to capture the essence of the world outside my window. With the Google Pixel 8 Pro's advanced camera capabilities, I'm sure I will be rekindling my passion again for the mundanely perculiar.

The Power of the Google Pixel 8 Pro Camera

The Google Pixel 8 Pro boasts a powerful 16-megapixel camera with an f/1.8 aperture and advanced computational photography features. This combination will enable me to capture stunning images in even the most challenging lighting conditions, perfect for the ever-changing environment of my daily commute, as we enter winter, here in the UK. The phone's Night Sight mode, for instance, will allow me to capture the essence of the city streets after hours, embracing the captivating play of lights and shadows. Whether it's a dimly lit street corner or a colorful neon sign contrasted against the darkness, the Google Pixel 8 Pro should have me covered.

A Full Circle Journey

As I find myself once again immersed in the world of street photography during my daily commute, armed with the Google Pixel 8 Pro smartphone, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. It's a testament to how far technology has come, enabling us to capture extraordinary moments with a device that fits in our pocket.
With the Google Pixel 8 Pro's exceptional camera capabilities, I've turned full circle and rediscovered the joy of street photography on the go. As I continue to explore the dynamic world outside my window, I'm excited to see where this journey takes me and the stories I'll be able to preserve through the lens of my smartphone.

Until next time, keep snapping.

Brighton Mod Weekender

The Brighton Mod Weekender is an iconic event that has left an indelible mark on British subculture. With its roots firmly planted in the 1960s, this weekend-long celebration of music, fashion, and scooters has become a timeless tradition. In this blog post, we'll take a journey through the history of the Brighton Mod Weekender, tracing its origins, its cultural significance, and its enduring appeal.

I have magical memories of mods and mod culture, when I was a lad growing up in 1980s midlands. A Vespa PX125, was my dream machine.

This was compounded further after watching Quadrophenia.

The Birth of the Mods

To understand the Brighton Mod Weekender, we must first delve into the world of the Mods. Emerging in the early 1960s in the United Kingdom, Mods were a youth subculture known for their sharp fashion sense, love of American R&B and soul music, and a passion for Vespa and Lambretta scooters. They represented a break from the austerity of post-war Britain, embracing a new sense of style and individuality.

The First Brighton Mod Weekender

The Brighton Mod Weekender has its origins in the mid-1960s when young Mods from London started heading to the coastal town of Brighton for weekend getaways. These trips were fueled by a desire to escape the urban grind and soak up the sun, sea, and good music. The iconic seafront location and the promise of excitement drew Mods to Brighton in droves.

The 1964 Whitsun Bank Holiday weekend marked the first official Brighton Mod Weekender. Thousands of Mods descended upon the town, creating a spectacle with their stylish attire and rows of gleaming scooters. It was during this weekend that the clashes between Mods and their rival subculture, the Rockers, gained national attention and became known as the "Battle of Brighton."

The Cultural Significance

The Brighton Mod Weekender soon became a symbol of youth rebellion, individuality, and a rejection of the status quo. Mods embraced modernity, with their immaculate suits, parkas, and music preferences that celebrated rhythm and blues. The event showcased a sense of community and belonging, where like-minded individuals came together to celebrate their unique identity.

Music played a central role in the Brighton Mod Weekender. DJ sets and live performances featured soul, R&B, ska, and jazz – genres that still define the Mod scene today. Iconic artists like The Who, The Small Faces, and The Kinks were embraced by Mods, their music becoming anthems for the movement.

The Revival and Evolution

While the initial Brighton Mod Weekenders of the 1960s waned as the decade came to a close, the spirit of the Mods endured. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, a Mod revival swept through the UK, inspired by the original movement. This resurgence brought a new generation of Mods to Brighton, reigniting the tradition.

Over the years, the Brighton Mod Weekender has evolved. It now welcomes not only those who were part of the original movement but also younger generations who appreciate the timeless style and music. The event has expanded to include vintage markets, scooter rallies, and art exhibitions, all celebrating the Mod ethos.

Until next time, keep snapping.

BPS and what will be.

The kids and I decided on our usual half term pilgrimage to London this past October.

A couple of photographic exhibitions took our fancy, namely the excellent Chris Kilip retrospective at The Photographer's Gallery and also the Bill Brandt inside the mirror at Tate Britain.

The former being a very modest £8 and the latter being free admission. Highly recommended.

Top on my list was having sight of the recently opened Battersea Power Station developemrnt.

I have always been mesmerised by this structure, since seeing the Pink Floyd Animals album cover when I was a little boy.

Back in 2012 - when I started to take my photography a little more seriously,or more than the impromptu family photos - I stumbled across Battersea Power Station, whilst walking around the side and back streets of central London.

I had my much missed and underrated Fuji X100 setup, allowing me to take street photos and long exposures. Light & nimble.

I took the below photo, which (at the time) I was indifferent about. It happens to be my best seller on my Etsy store.

Here are some stats about this magnificent structure.

• From the 1930s to 1980s, Battersea Power Station was a working Power Station. At its peak, it was producing a fifth of London’s power, supplying electricity to some of London’s most recognisable landmarks, such as the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace

• 1929 - Works begin on site. Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, one of the most prominent architects of the day, who was responsible for Britain’s red telephone boxes, joins the project. Original proposals were for the chimneys to be square rather than circular.

• 1935 - The first stage of the Power Station, Battersea A, is completed. The top of the western pair of chimneys are 101m from the ground. The chimneys themselves are 50m each, while the wash towers they sit on are 51m.

• 1940 - RAF pilots use the plumes of white vapour from the chimneys to guide them home in the mist. The Luftwaffe also used the plumes for navigation, which explains why the Power Station avoided extensive bombing.

• 1944 - Battersea B, the second stage of the Power Station, starts to generate electricity. The station goes on to pioneer a gas washing process to reduce sulphur emissions, with excess generated heat ducted under the Thames in a district heating scheme for 1,600 homes in Pimlico.

• 1955 - The fourth chimney, and second stage of the Power Station is complete, with the Power Station at peak capacity. The space within the main Boiler House is so vast that it would be possible to fit St. Pauls Cathedral within the space.

• 1964 - On 20 April, an electrical failure at Battersea Power Station caused power failures throughout London, including at the BBC Television centre, which was due to launch BBC Two that night. The launch was delayed to 11am the following day.

• 1977 - An inflatable pink pig floating between the two southern chimneys appears on the front cover of Pink Floyd’s album, Animals. The inflatable pig was tethered to one of the southern chimneys but lost its moorings and rose to the flight path of Heathrow Airport. Police helicopters tracked its course until it finally landed off the coast of Kent.

Album artwork, Animals, 1977. Design by Roger Waters. Graphics by Nick Mason. Production and art direction by Storm Thorgerson / Aubrey Powell at Hipgnosis.

• 1980 - The Power Station is awarded Grade II listed status. Awarded by Historic England, listed buildings mark and celebrate the building’s special architectural and historic interest. They’re also brought under the consideration of the planning system, so they can be protected for future generations.

• 1983 - The Power Station closes and ceases to generate electricity. It goes on to be purchased in 1987 by Battersea Leisure (theme park scheme) and again in 1993 by Parkview.

• 2007 - The Power Station is upgraded to Grade II* listed status. Less than 6% of listed buildings fall into this category as particularly important buildings of more than special interest.

• 2012 - The Power Station is purchased by the current shareholders, SP Setia, Sime Darby Property and the Employers Provident Fund, bringing an end to decades of disuse. Works begin the following year to redevelop the 42-acre site surrounding the Power Station to create a new community of homes, shops, cafes, restaurants, cultural venues and open space for London.

  Above taken from: https://batterseapowerstation.co.uk/

The most mind boggling stat is that: About 6 million bricks were used in the construction of the original building. Different makes were used throughout including Accrington engineering bricks, which were also used in the Empire State Building.

Architecture studio Wilkinson Eyre has unveiled the redeveloped Battersea Power Station in London ahead of its opening next week, almost 40 years after the building was decommissioned.

The former power station, which now contains over 100 shops, 46,000 square metres of office space for technology brand Apple and 254 apartments is set to officially open to the public on 14 October.

The £9bn development project has studio flats starting at £865,000 and the penthouse flat £8.0m.

Until next time, keep snapping.