MAYOR'S OFFICE MAKEOVER

Real Studios has created a characterful and evocative interior design and display scheme for the public rooms in Southwark Council's contemporary new offices on Tooley Street, emphasising the borough's rich heritage. Graphic representations of the river Thames weave around the entrance walls, overlaid with photos of Southwark's historic buildings and diverse population, and the borough's unique collection of Ships' badges.

Meeting rooms have been upgraded with contemporary furniture and colour schemes that reference the three ancient boroughs of which modern Southwark is made - Bermondsey, Old Southwark and Camberwell. Opportunities for the display of Southwark's art collection have been introduced, along with a display of the gilded maces of the boroughs, both old and new.

The building, a former warehouse, offers state-of-the-art council accommodation. Thanks to Real Studios' scheme, it now also expresses the character, colour and atmosphere.