Crystal Palace to get rebuilt glass palace

Londons Crystal Palace could soon have a rebuilt version of the building that gave the area its name – the great cast iron and glass building that was destroyed in a fire in the 1930s.

Originally built for the 1851 Great Exhibition in Hyde Park, the palace was then transported to Sydenham. It burnt down in 1936 but could soon be rebuilt after architect Ray Hall released images of the plans.

According to Mr Hall, the project would cost £265 million and could be finished by as early as 2014.

The UK has a definite passion for glass buildings with the Shard, Walkie Talkie and the Gherkin all grabbing headlines recently. The Natural History Museum also recently added a huge glazed extension and if this trend is anything to go by, the Crystal Palace landmark may not be too far behind.

The design for the new building includes an Edwardian funfair, cinema, hotel and exhibition spaces.

Mr Hall has spent 12 years designing his idea of the rebuilt palace and is hopeful that the project will go ahead, according to the Londonist.

Homeowners who wish to have the benefits of glass built into their own home may consider adding a conservatory or other form of glazed extension.