Historic Post Office on Abingdon Street in Blackpool has its windows recreated as building awaits restoration
Historic charm has returned to one of Blackpool town centre’s most recognisable buildings, thanks to a creative project that has transformed the boarded-up former Abingdon Street Post Office while it awaits renovation.
The former Abingdon Street Post Office has been given a striking new look as part of a project aimed at improving the appearance of the historic building during its period of closure.
Blackpool-based firm Links Signs and Graphics were commissioned by Blackpool Council several months ago to create decorative coverings for the ground-floor windows.
Metal sheets had been installed across the windows to protect the vacant building from vandalism and unauthorised access while plans for its future restoration progress.
While the security measures were necessary, the plain metal coverings did little to enhance the appearance of the prominent town centre landmark.
The challenge for the design team was to recreate the building’s original stained and frosted glass window aesthetic using printed panels that could be fitted over the metal sheets.
Drawing on archive photographs of the building, designers developed artwork inspired by the post office’s historic appearance. The concept was quickly approved by the council, allowing production and installation work to begin.
The front-facing windows were completed first with the rear elevation finished earlier this week, bringing the project to its conclusion.
Although many residents are eager to see the former post office fully restored to its former glory, the new window displays offer an attractive interim solution.
A spokesperson from Links, Signs and Graphics, said: “Metal covers had been put on all the windows to prevent vandalism and or entry to the building whilst it awaits renovation works.
“The metal sheets however were not aesthetically pleasing so the task was to see if we could replicate the old stained/frosted glass effect windows but on a printed panel that could overlay the metal sheets.
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“We dug through the archives of old imagery and our designer came up with a design that the client immediately loved and gave us the go ahead to crack on. We initially installed the front facing windows and then earlier this week completed the rear elevation windows.
“Everyone in the town would love this building to be restored to its former glory but whilst we await that and for the time being the appearance of the building has been lifted with a simple but effective solution.”
By reflecting elements of the building’s heritage the installation has helped breathe new life into a much-loved local landmark and improve its appearance while redevelopment plans move forward.