Background...
A ‘factory for television’
The BBC acquired the site over 60 years ago. It contained the dilapidated remains
of the 1908 / 1910 exhibitions, and a World War II munitions factory.
A unique “question mark” design was conceived by the BBC’s architect Graham Dawbarn,
creating the world’s largest and most sophisticated “factory for television”. Over
the years the buildings have been adapted to respond to the rapid growth in television
with new
buildings, extensions and refurbishments undertaken. However, despite the many changes, the view from Wood Lane of the forecourt, Studio 1 with its famous dots, the circular building and glimpses into Helios plaza have remained remarkably untouched – becoming a familiar view for millions as it has been used as a backdrop for a wide range of programmes over the last 6 decades.
