MICHELIN HOUSE

Michelin incorporated their United Kingdom branch in 1905 with high ambitions - they wanted to compete with Dunlop on Dunlop's own turf! Andre Michelin wanted to build a headquarters that would clearly identify Michelin's ambitions for the UK. So in 1911, a stone monument to corporate mascot Bibendum was erected at the junction of Fulham Road and Sloan Avenue in the Kensington neighborhood of London. The building would house Michelin's UK offices.

Michelin House

CONCEPT DRAWING FOR "MICHELIN HOUSE."
NOTICE THAT THE BIB's ON THE CORNERS OF THE ROOF, AND A FEW OTHER ECCENTRIC DETAILS, WERE TONED DOWN A BIT ON THE ACTUAL BUILDING

Michelin House (as the British call it) was architecturally very bold for conservative English tastes, incorporating flamboyant color, stained glass, tile, and "tire" motifs throughout. The ornamentation is impressive. Notice the large stacks of tires on each corner of the building, resembling Bib's body - they illuminate with an eerie yellow glow at night!

The building was the headquarters of Michelin UK until about 20 or so years ago, at which time it was vacated by Michelin and sold. There is a rumor floating around about how the building left Michelin's ownership. As rumors go, you can believe it or not, but here it is; The head of Michelin UK at the time was a headstrong and demanding type, not well liked among the office employees. He hated the commute into downtown London to get to his office, so he quietly and swiftly sold the building and opened up a new UK Michelin headquarters, nearer to his home on the outskirts of London. The rumor continues that when the Michelin Family in France found out, they were furious! How could such a tremendous landmark be sold? Fortunately, the building is listed on a British historic register and must be maintained in its original state.

BIB POURING TIRES OUT OF MICHELIN HOUSE AND INTO ANOTHER BUILDING - ANYONE KNOW WHAT THIS OTHER BUILDING IS?

Today, this 90 year-old building is not only standing, but has been restored to pristine condition! You can even enjoy a snack and a drink at the "Bibendum Crustacea," oyster bar while admiring an H-Van and a 2CV Truckette in the building's foyer.

The Michelin Building is located near Pelham Crescent, just south of Hyde Park, near Harrods. The South Kensington Tube stop puts you right there!