Begun in 1985, the current Hall (now the fifth Hall – the first was lost in the Great Fire) was opened by the Lord Mayor of London in September 1987.

The building is constructed of traditional materials in a manner which is in keeping with this historic part of the City and was listed, Grade 2, in May 2018.

Nestled within the intricate streets of Cloth Fair, Founders’ Hall stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity and heritage. Designed by Sam Lloyd in the late 20th century, the hall bridges the past and present through its neo-vernacular design, blending Arts and Crafts influences with Post-Modern flair. Its red and buff brick façade, punctuated by jettied stories and a gabled roofline, evokes the medieval character of the surrounding conservation area, where narrow alleys and courtyards unfold like a labyrinth.

Inside, Lloyd’s creativity flourishes. The underground livery hall, supported by Greek Doric columns and amplified by floor-to-ceiling mirrors, creates a striking illusion of grandeur. Porthole windows, styled as oeil de boeuf, frame views of St Bartholomew’s churchyard, while bespoke bronze sculptures and rich red walls contrast against pale blue scagliola columns. This imaginative reinterpretation of livery tradition celebrates Founders’ Hall as a vibrant link to its storied past.