Portcullis House: A Modern Landmark in the Heart of Westminster

Portcullis House watercolour

Portcullis House (GPS: 51.50127, -0.12435) is a striking modern office building located in the very heart of Westminster, just across the road from the Palace of Westminster. Although it may not have the centuries of history seen in its neighbouring structures, Portcullis House has become a landmark in its own right - both for its distinctive architectural style and its vital role in the workings of British democracy.

Portcullis House is on the Map of the City of Westminster

Where is Portcullis House?

Portcullis House stands on the north side of Bridge Street, directly across from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, at the junction with Victoria Embankment. It lies adjacent to Westminster Underground Station, making it easily accessible for anyone exploring central London. If you're walking west from Westminster Bridge, you'll find it immediately on your right after exiting the station.

Address: Portcullis House, Bridge Street, Westminster, London SW1A 2LW
Nearest Tube Station: Westminster (Jubilee, District, and Circle lines)

Its distinctive design, by architects Michael Hopkins and Partners, blends classical proportions with high-tech modernism. Its most recognisable features are the rows of chimney-like towers that line the roof, which are not purely decorative - they serve as part of an advanced natural ventilation system that helps regulate the building's temperature. The building's interior features an open central atrium with fig trees, allowing for natural light and a surprisingly serene atmosphere amid the bustle of Westminster politics.

The name Portcullis House is a reference to the portcullis, a medieval iron gate that is used today as a symbol of the British Parliament. The same portcullis icon is found on official parliamentary documents and signage.

What Was Here Before?

The site on which Portcullis House now stands has a long and layered history. For much of the 20th century, it was home to the Norman Shaw Buildings, which were themselves once police headquarters. Before Portcullis House was constructed, the site included a London Underground station building - a rather nondescript entrance to Westminster Station - and an area known as Bridge Street Island, a small triangle of land created by the surrounding roadways.

As part of the redevelopment, Westminster Underground Station was completely rebuilt and expanded, becoming one of the deepest and most modern stations on the Jubilee Line Extension. Portcullis House was constructed directly above the new station box, making it one of the few large buildings in London with deep foundations designed around a functioning underground interchange.

Interesting Faces

Portcullis House is not open to the general public, but committee sessions held in its meeting rooms can sometimes be attended by the public. If you're visiting Parliament and want to attend a hearing, it's worth checking what's on.

The building's ventilation towers are a signature feature and have drawn comparisons to steampunk architecture.

Inside the atrium café, which is usually reserved for MPs and parliamentary staff, portraits of politicians are often displayed, contributing to its reputation as a space where politics and art intersect.

The entire complex was built to be bomb-resistant, with reinforced walls and blast-resistant windows - a reminder of the security concerns in the area.

A Landmark Worth Noticing

Even if you can't go inside, Portcullis House is well worth a look as you pass through Westminster. Its modern design offers a visual counterpoint to the Gothic splendour of the Palace of Westminster, and it embodies how the UK Parliament has evolved to meet the demands of the 21st century. For architecture enthusiasts, political followers, or just the curious visitor, it's a fascinating stop on any walk through central London.

Portcullis House on Google Street View

(Jun 2022)

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