Crystal Palace Bowl
A landmark of South London's Crystal Palace Park, this sculptural corten steel stage by Ian Ritchie Architects was a nominee for the 1998 Stirling Prize. A rare opportunity to access the structure, learn it's history and step on stage.
Crystal Palace Park has a long association with live music. The famous Handel recitals ran from 1859 to the 1920s in the original palace, while the popular Garden Party Festivals of the 1970s and '80s saw legendary names like Pink Floyd, Elton John, Bob Marley, the Beach Boys and the Cure all grace the concert bowl.
In 1997 a new permanent stage was commissioned to host the next generation of performers, with Ian Ritchie Architects winning a competition with their striking and sculptural design clad in corten steel – one of the first of its kind for a UK public building. The stage presides over its own ornamental lake and a gently sloping natural amphitheatre, in one of the few areas of the park which retains the original Joseph Paxton landscaping.
A nominee for the 1998 Stirling Prize and winner of multiple architectural awards, the stage has since become a much loved local landmark, though sadly hasn't hosted concerts for many years and has gradually fallen into a state of disrepair.
A project is now underway to engage with the community and find future uses for the stage, ahead of a proposed restoration. This is a rare opportunity to gain access the structure, learn more about its extraordinary history and help have a say in its exciting future!
Instagram: @crystalpalacebowl
Twitter: @cp_bowl
