Holborn Bars

Holborn Bars is a large red terracotta office building at 138–142 Holborn featuring Gothic Revival architecture with ornate detailing across its facades. The structure spreads across multiple courtyards and wings that together form a substantial complex in central London.

The complex was built gradually between 1879 and 1901 for Prudential Assurance Company and served as the company's headquarters for over 120 years. After 1999 it was converted into modern office space for various businesses.

The building shows how Victorian employers separated their workforce—women had their own entrances, dining rooms, and libraries. This spatial division remains visible in the building's layout and tells the story of workplace life in 19th-century Britain.

Modern renovation has transformed the building into a functional office complex with contemporary amenities while keeping historical architectural features. Visitors can see the blend of old craftsmanship and new conveniences throughout the different areas of the complex.

The building was among the first in London to have electric lighting installed in 1881 and used a pneumatic tube system for internal messages. These technologies were remarkably advanced for their time.

Location: London Borough of Camden

Inception: 1901

Architects: Alfred Waterhouse, Paul Waterhouse, Ernest Joseph

GPS coordinates: 51.51870,-0.11025

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:44