In August I went on another little wander with James Brewster, this time it was onto Old Street and the adjacent Barbican Complex. The Barbican Complex is a prominent example of British brutalist architecture and is also a Grade II listed building which perfectly encapsulates London’s architectural diversity.
The Barbican Centre was designed by Chamberlin, Powell and Bon in classic Brutalist style. Walking through this multi-level layout you’re enclosed by a concrete terrace which serves as one of the main focal points of the centre. Although the estate was built between 1965 and 1976 on a site that was previously bombed during World War 2, it’s now viewed as one of the most exclusive residential areas in London.
Brutalism was once described by Queen Elizabeth as “one of the modern wonders of the world” and although I don’t entirely agree with the statement there is something truly unique about the style. Although difficult to explore fully in a single visit, the Barbican Centre is a must for any lovers of architecture and design out there.
“The materials are solid, the details – lamps, handrails, gates, gutters – seem to have been adopted from a second world war battleship” – Jonathan Glancey
STYLEGRAM
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