Gala Bingo Club

GALA BINGO CLUB, HIGH STREET, ACTON

A former cinema, originally built as the Dominion in 1936-7 for Albert Bacal and N. Lee. The architect was Frank Ernest Bromige LRIBA (1902-1979).

EXTERIOR

The facade is constructed in brown facing brick and render, presenting a tall, symmetrical Moderne design. The centrepiece comprises three sets of paired entrance doors flanked by splay walls, with the first part rendered. At first and second floor levels, the centre section breaks forward as a cantilevered structure, creating a large area of glazing and simultaneously forming a canopy over the entrance. Twin vertical members rise from this canopy to third floor level, then curve inwards as fins to support an oversized cornice. These vertical members are filled with continuous glazing, which at first floor level bends around on either side to meet the brick. The glazed areas feature broad cornices above, with balconies decorated with Art Deco metal balustrades. French doors open onto these balconies from either side. All glazing incorporates multiple transoms and margin mullions. A deep parapet at the top formerly carried the cinema name but is now masked by a recent metal fascia. The tall slender windows on the flanking stair towers have also been covered.

The left return wall is constructed entirely in brick. Pilasters expressing the steel-frame structure have stepped summits. At the entrance end are two double-doors with sundry small windows serving offices and lavatories. The far end contains further exit doors, service accommodation windows, and a large rectangular louvered ventilation aperture.

INTERIOR

The double-height foyer features stairs ascending to a landing over the entrance and then to the balcony foyer. Moderne balustrades with chromium handrails are fitted throughout. The ceiling incorporates streamlined lighting coves. A chromium bowl torchere and similar fitting are mounted in the ceiling.

The broad double-height auditorium has coves reaching down to the proscenium, above which sits a long horizontal grill. A large balcony with curved front and vomitory entrance overlooks the space. Narrow column pilasters divide the side walls into bays, treated with banding.

SIGNIFICANCE

This is a notable example of a 1930s super-cinema by one of the era's most accomplished cinema specialists. The cantilevered facade and the associated space-saving stair plan in the foyer, reminiscent of arrangements in Westminster Central Hall, are believed to be unique in cinema design. The building operated as the Granada before closing in 1972, after which it became a bingo club.