There’s a rather imposing building looming over Bloomsbury that’s steeped in fascinating history, and it has played inspiration for many artists since its foundations back in 1937. Designed by legendary architect Charles Holden, the Senate House is an imposing art deco masterpiece that rises 19 stories above the capital.
The building was originally conceived as the administrative building for the University of London, which is still its use today, but the vast, fortress-like structure took a different role during World War II, when it became the headquarters of the Ministry of Information.
Senate House and George Orwell
The intimidating monolithic design and wartime use for propaganda and censorship directly influenced none other than George Orwell when he was writing 1984. Both the architecture and use of the Senate House strongly parallel the themes of control, surveillance, and manipulation found in the beloved dystopian novel.
The book is set in Oceana, a dystopian mergence of US and UK governments, with several ministries playing a key role in the plot including the Ministry of Truth, which rewrites history to suit the needs of the Party. This is much like how the Ministry of Information controlled the narrative during WWII, which was formed on the day after Britain’s declaration of war.
A dystopian Ministry of Information
The Ministry of Information are notably famous for pre-war planning and creating the ‘Keep Calm & Carry On’ posters, which would, rather ironically if Orwell is concerned, become a symbol of British culture.
It’s also no secret that the MOI was originally kept as a secret from the public, all while publishing national propaganda, as well as controlling our news and information. Orwell was struck by this, as well as the ministry’s chosen home inside this eerie building in the heart of Bloomsbury, a neighbourhood known for its writers and intellects.
These ideas were distilled into 1984, where government officials would manipulate historical records and rewrite the truth under the leader (and symbol) of the book’s government, Big Brother.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom, don’t worry. Although Orwell may have viewed the Senate House with a sense of unease, it’s also deeply admired for its architectural brilliance. Holden’s design blended functionalism with stripped-back classical elements, creating a building that was (and still is) both modern and monumental.
Today, it remains a key part of the University of London, as well as a literary landmark that stands as a testament to both the dark and inspiring elements of the 20th century, very much in parallel to the spirit of our burnished city. So, the next time you’re in Bloomsbury, remember to look up to witness this fascinating slice of London history.