The leafy Georgian streets of Bloomsbury were shaken up in the 1930s by a new wave of development, from great academic institutions to speculative flats for modern urban living, plus probably the most stylish car showroom in London. We'll explore the range of 1930s architectural styles used in some famous and not so famous buildings, and even take a peek inside where we can.

The Mandrake is a luxury boutique hotel with a spectacular internal hanging garden. A retrofit by architects Manalo & White and interior designer Tala Fustok Studio, every aspect has been thoughtfully designed to offer a truly immersive experience. It is a unique example of how a property can be repurposed in new and surprising ways, respecting but boldly transforming the original building.

Manalo & White, 2018

The Smallest Gallery in Soho is a historic shop-front which faces onto 62 Dean Street, in the heart of Soho. The aim of this creative space is to display artwork that captures people’s attention on their journey through Soho and encourage them to stop, think and be inspired. The art displays are only to be viewed from the street and can be seen at any time of the day for free.

, 1911

The first purpose-built new-build community centre to be built in the heart of Soho for generations, located within the renowned Phoenix Gardens. Winner: RIBA London Award. Designed by RIBA London Architect of the Year Winner.

Office Sian Architecture + Design, 2018

This innovative housing model accommodates a family of 16, showcasing adaptive design that harmonizes with its environment. The structure features pioneering use of bamboo and palm materials, incorporates buoyant platforms, and thoughtfully connects interior spaces to the waterline, blending sustainability with aesthetics.

The area post 1700 became very cosmopolitan with immigrants mainly from Europe and their influence on food and drink became increasingly important. This tour is based on food and drink, passing by restaurants, pubs, coffee bars and pâtisserie delis that have been present for decades, finishing at a relatively new site.

St Anne's embraces the historic tower (1811) in St Anne's Gardens with hand wound clock, Allen Room with stained glass windows and ornate ceiling (1910), modern church (1990) and award winning entrance (2016). Entrance on Dean St.

William Talman/ Christopher Wren, 1686

Architecture studio Klaud leads a tour of the Soho Photography Quarter and The Photographers’ Gallery's refurbished ground floor, which has been redesigned to connect to this new public space that features a 45m ‘Artfrieze’ at the core of a curated public art programme.

Klaud (formerly ALA), 2021

Built in a Renaissance style with high level Diocletian windows and a prominent grand cupola. In 2016 a new Fly Tower opened followed by remodelling of the auditorium in 2018 and the creation of a new basement space opened in 2022.

Bennetts Associates, 2022

Loughborough Pearson's red brick building is unimposing from the outside, but inside is a riot of Gothic Revival design. Golden mosaics reveal the character of the Grade II* listed chapel, built as part of the Middlesex Hospital.

J. L. Pearson, 1891

Inner Space, London’s oasis of calm, is opening its doors again during the Open House Festival. Join us for free taster sessions, including Guided Meditations, Personal Development Seminars, and workshops. Visitors can also unwind in our Quiet Room, offering a peaceful escape. Discover tools for mindfulness and personal growth and new ways to relax. Leave feeling rejuvenated and inspired.