Former Laboratory At The Imperial Gas Works

The former laboratory at the Imperial Gas Works, built in 1927 by Sir Walter Tapper, is a notable example of a research laboratory building. Constructed from red brick, reconstituted stone, and Portland stone, it features a ten-bay east-facing elevation and a three-bay north-facing entrance elevation with an imperial staircase. Although it appears to be two storeys over a basement from the outside, it has three storeys internally. The building has metal framed sash windows and a grand entrance with a double staircase leading to the raised ground floor. The entrance door is framed by a moulded architrave and an open segmental pediment, which is supported by consoles and features a date stone. Other exterior details include gauged brick window arches, a plat band at the first floor level, a moulded cornice, and a parapet, with rusticated quoins at the corners. The long side elevation has a rusticated basement with rectangular windows beneath voussoirs, and the projecting end bays mirror the treatment of the north facade. The southernmost bay has a door with an arched surround, imposts, and a keystone.

Inside, there is an open-well staircase at the north end with a bronze handrail and Roman-style ironwork, along with triple arched openings at each landing. The rest of the interior is largely plain and functional. This building was constructed as a research laboratory and apprentices' school, reflecting the company's commitment to promoting the commercial use of gas during the interwar period. It is a well-designed industrial building by a prominent architect and is part of a site with a historical connection to gas production dating back to 1824, sharing group value with other structures on the site.