The Modernist Legacy of Pilkington Glass.
The abandoned canteen of the former Pilkington Glass headquarters in St Helens, UK, serves as a strong reminder of the site's industrial past and architectural importance. Completed in 1964, the building was designed in a distinctive Modernist style, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetics. This canteen was part of a larger "modernist utopia," created to improve the well-being of staff. Its bright, spacious interior featured oversized windows that overlooked a peaceful lake, giving workers a calming view and fostering a sense of relaxation during their breaks.
Pilkington's contributions, such as the float glass process, solidified its global reputation and played a key role in the economic growth of St Helens. However, after Pilkington was acquired by Nippon Sheet Glass in 2006, the connection to its St Helens headquarters diminished. In 2015, the sale of the former HQ was completed, and the remaining staff were transferred.
