One face - the everchanging use

Analysis of King’s Cross area in London

Student report (2022)

Authors

M.A. Krzysztofowicz Architecture and the Built Environment

Contributors

J.C. Edens Teachers of Practice / A - Architecture and the Built Environment (supervisor 1)
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment
Copyright: © 2022 Marta Krzysztofowicz
London Adaptive re-use Gentrification King's Cross
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Published Date

14-04-2022

Language

English

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Faculty

Architecture and the Built Environment

Abstract

London is a city with extremely rich history, where old and new are heavily intertwined. A prime example of this is the King’s Cross area, which has continued to be an integral area of the city for many Londoners. However, throughout centuries its meaning has changed. People have worked there, started journeys there, had their craziest Saturday nights and now, in the light of recent developments, they can enjoy a walk in a park and a meal in a Michelin starred restaurant.
This paper explores how the frequent changes of King’s Cross’ use and function were expressed through architecture. The chapters chronologically describe the site’s transformation. The dynamic changes of the buildings’ and districts’ functions is hugely related to the political and economical situation in Britain, in addition to the global economy. The focus is put on the four periods of time which define the biggest changes: the time of industrial glory (1850 -1914), the decay and abandonment caused by wars and de-industrialisation (1914-1980), the interim use that enhanced artistic expression (1980-2007) and the newly regenerated commercial district (2007-now).
The analysis is conducted considering various aspects. Firstly, each chapter discusses the direct relation between architecture and the function behind it. Secondly, it focuses on the changes of social dynamic of the site. It explores who was attracted to the area during different periods and how the district was perceived by society. Lastly, it analyses the influence of the development of King’s Cross area on the urban fabric.