National Westminster Bank

The National Westminster Bank, originally known as Central Chambers, is a prominent building located at the corner of Richmond Hill, constructed in 1888 by Lawson and Donkin. This four-storey structure features a dormer and exhibits a mixed Renaissance architectural style. The ground floor is made of stone and includes pilasters, having been remodelled around 1920. The upper floors are adorned with giant Ionic pilasters crafted from buff brick, complemented by Bath stone dressings. The first-floor windows are two-light with a pilaster mullion, set beneath a triangular pediment. The second-floor windows feature arched glazing bars beneath broad four-centred arches, with spandrels made of Purbeck stone. The third-floor windows are segment-headed and arranged in pairs, while the fourth floor includes dormers with segmental pediments supported by consoles, all against a slate mansard roof. A main dentil cornice is supported by coupled console brackets. The building also includes an annexe on Old Christchurch Road, which has the same stone ground floor, but the two upper floors are entirely made of stone with giant pilasters. The first-floor windows are segmental, while the second-floor windows are round-headed, featuring moulded frames and panelled spandrels. A main cornice on console brackets sits above a frieze, topped with a balustrade.