Michelin House, located on the Fulham Road in Chelsea, is a unique and iconic building that dates back to 1911. Originally, it was constructed as the first permanent UK headquarters and tire depot for the Michelin Tyre Company. The building's remarkable architectural style is credited to François Espinasse, an engineer with the Michelin company, and it combines elements of Art Nouveau and early 20th-century industrial design.
A particularly striking feature of Michelin House is its facade, which is adorned with decorative ceramic tiles depicting racing cars and bicycles, referencing Michelin's rich history in both motor racing and bicycle tires. These vibrant tiles, along with Big Bibendum or 'The Michelin Man' figures, make the building's exterior highly distinctive and easily recognizable.
Inside Michelin House, visitors can enjoy the luxurious ambiance of Bibendum Restaurant, named after Michelin's famous tire man symbol. Opened in 1987 by Sir Terence Conran and designer Paul Hamlyn, the restaurant has established itself as one of London's dining hotspots, serving refined French cuisine in an elegant setting that celebrates its automotive heritage.
The building is also home to various other businesses, including a selection of high-end retail stores, showcasing its adaptive reuse over the years while preserving its historic charm. This blend of commerce, history, and culture makes Michelin House a fascinating example of functional architecture that continues to serve the community in a modern context.
One quirky historical tidbit about Michelin House is that, during the Second World War, it was purportedly used as a place to store looted art works. While details around this period remain somewhat obscure, it adds a layer of intrigue to the building's storied past.
In addition to its restaurant and shops, Michelin House is admired for its architectural style, which features large glass windows that allow natural light to flood the interior. This innovative design choice was quite ahead of its time when the building first opened and has helped cement its status as a beloved London landmark.
Making the Most of Your Visit:
When visiting Michelin House, take a good look at the ceramic tiles on the facade. They aren't just decorative but tell a story of the building's history with racing cars and bicycles, so spend a few moments to appreciate these unique details.
Inside Michelin House, try to enjoy a meal at Bibendum Restaurant. The fusion of elegant French cuisine with a backdrop of automotive history makes for a unique dining experience. Booking in advance is recommended since it can get quite busy.
If you're an architecture enthusiast, take note of the impressive glass windows. These were quite revolutionary at the time for allowing so much natural light into the building, a design aspect that was ahead of its time in 1911.
Aside from the well-known restaurant, explore the other businesses in the building. These high-end retail stores add a modern twist to the historic space, and you might just find something special to take home with you.
For a bit of quirky history, remember that Michelin House was believed to be used for storing looted artworks during World War II. While details are sparse, it adds a mysterious layer to this iconic building's story.
Visiting Times & Costs:
Opening Hours:
- The exterior of Michelin House is accessible to the public at all times as it is part of the public streetscape.
- The Bibendum Restaurant operates during typical dining hours but it is advisable to verify specific opening times directly with the restaurant.
- Retail stores within Michelin House may have varying hours, generally following standard retail operating hours.
Admission:
- There is no fee to view the exterior of Michelin House or to enter the building to browse the retail shops.
- Dining at Bibendum Restaurant incurs the cost of meals ordered.
Accessibility:
- Michelin House is generally accessible to those with mobility issues; however, it's recommended to check with individual businesses within for specific accessibility features.
Address & Map:
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