Although not a modernist building, The Winter Gardens in Blackpool is a very impressive entertainment complex, originally designed and opened in 1878, that houses a range of venues such as the Ballroom, Theatre, Opera House, café and various other conference facilities. It was originally designed by theatre architect Frank Matcham , with additions to the complex being built in late 1800s, Olympia House being built in 1910 and the Opera House Theatre re built in 1939.
I took a visit to the areas accessible by the public and was enthralled by the decorative pattern on the ceiling, walls and floor and the fantastic pride and care taken in the building by the management and community. Blackpool Council are also developing the Blackpool Museum Project, from which they are planning to open a museum within the Winter Gardens in 2018. I am hoping to visit the collection in the next few months to source any archived materials about the local seaside moderne buildings I am researching.
