Preserving a Piece of London’s Artistic History: Our Work at Tottenham Court Road Station

Tottenham Court Road Station is more than just a busy stop on the Underground - it’s home to one of London’s most celebrated public art installations. As part of the station’s wider renovation, Design Rationale was proud to play a key role in preserving and enhancing this cultural landmark.

At the heart of the project was the iconic mosaic work by Sir Eduardo Paolozzi, created in 1986. Our team was entrusted with the delicate task of renovating the architectural glass and metalwork throughout the station - with a particular focus on the rotunda that surrounds Paolozzi’s famed commuter mosaic.

Specialist Glass, Metalwork, and Cladding Solutions

As experts in high-performance architectural finishes, we were appointed to deliver bespoke solutions that demanded precision, technical skill, and respect for the original artistry. Our scope included:

• Restoration and installation of architectural glass panels

• Bespoke metalwork throughout the station

• Custom cladding of the rotunda surrounding Paolozzi’s mosaic

  
  

The rotunda cladding was a key element of the project. It had to match the scale and spirit of Paolozzi’s bold visual language while providing durability, easy maintenance, and a clean, modern finish.

Working in a Live, High-Traffic Environment

Tottenham Court Road Station is one of London’s busiest Underground stations, making site logistics and precision timing essential. All work was carried out with minimal disruption, and every detail was carefully planned to align with the station’s tight operational schedule.

The visual and cultural importance of Paolozzi’s mosaics also meant that any architectural interventions had to be carried out with absolute respect for the artist’s legacy - enhancing the space without ever overshadowing it.

Craftsmanship Meets Cultural Preservation

The success of the project came down to collaboration. We worked closely with our trusted manufacturers and suppliers to develop a bespoke cladding system that could follow the rotunda’s curved geometry while meeting stringent safety and longevity standards.

Every component was custom-made and meticulously installed - a testament to the craftsmanship and care that defines our work.

A Lasting Contribution to London’s Underground

This project remains a proud moment for Design Rationale. It reflects what we do best: delivering expertly crafted architectural features that enhance public environments while preserving their unique character.

By restoring the glass and metalwork, and successfully cladding the rotunda, we helped ensure that Sir Eduardo Paolozzi’s extraordinary mosaics will continue to inspire and uplift commuters for decades to come.