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THE OWO – LONDON
Designed by British architect William Young, the War Office was built on the site of the Palace of
Whitehall – home for centuries to English monarchs, including King Henry VIII. Built in the Baroque style,
the landmark building was completed in 1906 and stood as silent witness to world-shaping events
of the 20th century. Influential political and military leaders, including Winston Churchill, walked the
corridors and halls of Great Britain’s most important seat of power.
The distinctive heritage of the OWO, old war office, has been preserved through six years of
restoration and reinstatement of its solemn splendor. Zonca Lighting took part in this engaging
operation by creating custom lighting fixtures, with a strong adherence to the specifications of the
time, blending industrial and vintage aesthetics.
The designers of ‘1508 London’ and ‘The office of Thierry W Despont’ modernized these beautiful
lines of the early 20th century, and Zonca Lighting, with careful research into the best Italian
manufacturing, managed to illuminate the majestic dining halls, lounge areas, private rooms, and
suites of this unparalleled building, which, from seat of power, became the most exciting destination
in the entire London.
