Torquay Pavilion

Torquay Pavilion is a pavilion built in 1911 by HA Garrett, Borough Surveyor, based on designs from 1897 by Edward Richards, architect to the Haldon estate. The contractor was RE Narracott of Stoke Gabriel. Between 1986 and 1987, it was converted into a shopping precinct. It stands on reclaimed land, constructed on a concrete raft reinforced with an expanded steel frame and brick infill, clad externally with Doulton's patent carrera-ware with a cream and green glazed finish, and topped with a copper roof. The building features fine Art Nouveau ironwork.

The plan is arranged on a north/south axis with a nave incorporating a barrel roof and clerestory windows, topped by a central dome. Flanking aisles and end blocks which accommodate roof promenades; these include octagonal corner turrets with railings and domed roofs on cast-iron columns. A central bow on the west side gives views over Princess Gardens.

Originally the interior comprised a hall with a stage, orchestra pit and balcony, with a tea garden on the roof. Externally, the nave has pedimented, gabled ends with large Diocletian windows opening onto asphalted roof terraces with balustrades. Cast-iron steps with floral balustrades are on the east and west sides. The corner turrets have railings and bell-shaped copper domes on cast-iron columns. The north end entrance block has a terrace above; it is flanked by turrets with pointed copper domes crowned with statues of Mercury. A statue of Britannia sits atop the nave dome. A segmental-headed doorway has a glazed canopy supported on cast-iron brackets. The sides of the building are articulated with pilasters and feature round-headed windows, some arranged in pairs and triplets with Art Nouveau glass. The east side was repaired during the 1980s conversion, which followed the demolition of an adjoining theatre.

The original plasterwork remains to the barrel vault, arranged in panels. The borough arms are displayed above the east entrance, flanked by figures representing health and happiness. A 1980s staircase leads to a mezzanine level. It is an exuberant seaside building with an interesting construction and exceptional ironwork.