1-7 Constitution Hill

The Grade II listed former H.B. Sale die-sinkers factory at 1-7 Constitution Hill, Birmingham is sometimes known as the 'Red Palace'. It was built in 1896 to the designs of William Doubleday and James R. Shaw. It was originally planned for five storeys, but only four were built. The fifth storey was added in the mid 20th century and sits badly with the original architecture. The tower was intended as a memorial to Lord Roberts of Kandahar who campaigned in Afghanistan and then worked in India. Each upper floor, measuring approximately 900 square feet, was designed as a single workshop with an office in the tower. There was an engine room and dynamo in the basement.