Byzantine brilliance

September 27, 2015April 8, 2016 / mikeosbornphoto / 23 Comments

This is a place tucked away in a corner of central London. It would be very easy to walk straight by and remain oblivious to its existence.

The Fitzrovia Chapel has just opened to the public for the first time since a major restoration. It was designed in 1891 and used to sit in the grounds of the Middlesex Hospital. While that complex closed and was demolished, the chapel remained intact and is now surrounded by the tall, angular structures of a contemporary redevelopment.

Resplendent in gold leaf, mosaic work and marble, this relatively small building is more of a nod to the opulence of the Byzantine Empire. Its soaring roof space is a thing of wonder. If you’re ever wandering around London, track it down and pay a visit. And don’t forget to bring your camera.

Click first image to view the gallery

Fit for a queen

May 3, 2015May 3, 2015 / mikeosbornphoto / 12 Comments

Greenwich in London is a remarkable concentration of architectural riches. In a small area you can visit the splendour of the Queen’s House, a handsome pile of majestic columns, crowned with the beautiful swirl of the Tulip Stairs.

It’s just a short walk away to the commanding site of the Old Royal Naval College, with its domed Painted Hall and fabulously intricate chapel. These gems may be full of the grandeur of old, but with symmetry and pure lines of their contemporary successors. A photographer’s joy.

And thanks to Cindy Eve of 3 Days in London for recommending the trek to this popular corner of the city.

Click first image to view this selection

2014 moments #8

January 2, 2015 / mikeosbornphoto / 9 Comments

I would like to share my 10 most memorable photographs of the past year over the coming days with you. These are shots that I am particularly proud of, while each evokes a sense of place and meaning from 2014.

LONER IN THE GALLERY

This is a glimpse into one of London’s grand, stately homes – a dazzling Gothic pile called Strawberry Hill House. It’s a photograph that captures the sumptuous architecture of it gallery and the order of a row of chairs set out at the end of this room. The surprise – which I didn’t notice when taking the shot – is the shoes of a volunteer guide on the right hand side, seated for a moment between visitors.

Vertigo

February 25, 2013February 28, 2013 / mikeosbornphoto / 11 Comments

Working at BBC Television Centre as it winds down for closure gives me time to explore its many corridors and take photographs of this unique piece of architecture and west London heritage.

Recently I photographed a staircase which is well-known to BBC staff. But it’s just one of many which grace the building, several of which lurk behind closed doors and are designed as emergency escapes. Their shapes and styles – especially on a sunny day – can produce some good shots. Peering up and down any big stairwell is not a good idea if you’re prone to vertigo.