A mixed-use renovation by Orms forms a new arcade on London’s Chancery Lane

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Marcus Peel

As part of its renovation of an office building behind retained Victorian facades at 79-86 Chancery Lane, London, architect Orms has inserted a stepped glass and metal infill over the historic alleyway Chichester Rents, which runs between numbers 83 and 84. The installation replaces bridges that were introduced over the alley in an earlier renovation.

“Faceted by anodised aluminium panels, the facade of this new build changes in appearance according to the movement of the sun throughout the day due to the nature of its glistening jewel-like quality”, says the architect.

Terracotta fins have been added to flank walls facing onto the alley, in reference to faïence detailing that was removed in the 1990 renovation. At ground level, new full-height glazed shop fronts have been installed to activate a lively street frontage.

An additional top floor of 8,200 square feet provides views of Lincoln’s Inn Fields.

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