The IYLO building: a remarkable addition to Croydon

Whatever is said of the IYLO building, its troubles are far behind it now, and the project is set for completion as a remarkable addition to Croydon. That's because it was designed by Darling Associates.

For years to come, the well-designed structure will be a joy to live in and around, as it has been built to allow sunlight to get to nearby buildings. Unlike the concrete valleys of New York where the sun may not touch the pavement for months, if at all, the IYLO was designed to benefit its environs. Sunlight can even reach the interior of the construction, which means the area won't be left with a legacy of gloomy accommodation.

Far from being an eyesore that looms over surrounding houses, the development has been kept in proportion with other buildings. It also reuses an old site, which prevents a major part of Croydon from lying vacant, in addition to preventing so many homes being built on green belt land.

Moreover, the IYLO building ensures future generations will be able to enter and use the building whether they are able bodied or not. The wheelchair access is excellent. Indeed the IYLO, now known as ISLAND, complies with major guidelines on disabled friendly constructions. The IYLO building was also designed to house low-paid professions vital to the proper functioning of the area, such as nurses and police officers.

When finally complete, the elegant 20-storey tower will house 183 families. That will mean well over 183 lives will be lived out in the area, with people engaging in their studies or taking up retirement here. This keeps Croydon vibrant, as well as attractive for new investment.

While it has lain dormant, the build has remained a stylish feature to behold, with its arching curves, and it has provided architectural interest in a landscape of square lines and predictable corners. In fact, the two sides of the IYLO building just pass each other rather than meeting.

The IYLO's fate has been a little like the Empire State Building. That project was hampered by the Wall Street Crash of 1929, but in time, people started moving in. No-one would suggest that New York would be better for not having its Empire State, and Croydon is much the better for holding onto the former IYLO building through the bad times.

Editor’s Note: ISLAND (http://www.islandcroydon.com/) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.