designed in 1961 by architect James Roberts as an office block
the original plans for the Rotunda included a rotating restaurant at the top
Roberts wanted the building to look like a candle with a flame-like weather beacon on top, changing colour to reflect the weather. Alas, this never happened
the architect lived on the top floor for many years. Roberts knew a good thing when he saw it
the basement once housed bank vaults - that's why the walls are so thick
demolition was threatened three decades later, but local opposition and the work of English Heritage saved the building and it was grated Grade-II listed status
Urban Splash was chosen to take on the redevelopment because of its reputation as a pioneer in urban regeneration and modern design
Urban Splash worked with Birmingham's Glenn Howells Architects on the design. From his office window, Glenn can see the Rotunda and enjoy his work
the Rotunda is 265ft (81 metres) in height
Staying Cool opened its doors at Rotunda on the 12th May, 2008