The principled pragmatist

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For anyone remotely interested in architecture, stepping into the Trades Union Congress headquarters in London, is a veritable treat. A Grade II listed building, Congress House is replete with 1950s period touches, from its wood panelled lifts to a huge central courtyard.

But it’s the art that really catches the eye – first the bronze Bernard Meadows sculpture by the entrance representing trade unionism with the strong helping the weak; then in the internal courtyard, Jacob Epstein’s beautiful carved stone statue of a woman holding her dead son in memory of trade unionists who died in the world wars.

Everything is symbolic – both the people and the place imbue a sense of shared experience and solidarity. And while the TUC’s general secretary, Frances O’Grady, may sit in a big office, behind a big desk, she is the opposite of aloof, proving to be personable and approachable, often rare qualities in leaders.

Her welcoming and open manner means the conversation flows ...