Since opening its doors in 1982 on London’s largest post-war bombsite, the Barbican Centre has deservedly become one of the capital’s most prized possessions. A hub for all things art and culture, the beloved building is an architectural treasure – but has been subjected to its fair share of wear and tear over the past 43 years.
Redevelopment of the centre has been a hot topic of discussion for many years now – but the wheels are officially in motion, as the first phase of plans have been revealed and put forward for public consultation. If the proposals are given the green light, every nook and cranny of the building will be restored, refurbished, and made just a tad more resilient so that future generations can enjoy it for many years to come.
What will the Barbican Centre Renewal involve?
Having been designed back in the 1970s, accessibility unfortunately wasn’t at the forefront of the building’s construction. And so a large proportion of the initial plans involve updating the building to ensure that it’s as inclusive and accessible as possible. Phase one of the plans will see three areas of the Barbican Centre receive some well-needed TLC – and the Lakeside Terrace, the foyers, and the Barbican Conservatory are first in line.
Inside the foyers, the toilets and the lifts are top of the agenda – with the existing facilities being upgraded, and new facilities (including accessible toilets) being added. The Lakeside Terrace is set to be repaved, its fountains are set to be upgraded, and new lighting, planting, and a glazing are all in the pipeline, too. The renewal plans also involve the Barbican Conservatory (the largest glasshouse in central London) being made fully accessible and separated from the terrace so that its opening hours can be extended.
The Barbican Centre renewal is committed to celebrating the architectural vision, the history, and the heritage of the original building, whilst ensuring that each part of the building is enhanced and updated, so that the centre’s full potential can be released and enjoyed by all.
The City of London Corporation (the building’s founder and main funder) committed a rather hefty £191 million to support the five year phase of plans. That contribution represents around 80% of the amount needed to fund the work, and a major fundraising campaign is set to be launched later this year.
When will the Barbican Centre renewal start?
The proposed plans for the first phase of the renovation are currently open for public feedback, and -subject to planning permission – construction is set to begin in 2027. If all goes to plan, the first phase will be complete in time for the Barbican’s 50th birthday bash in 2032.
Find out more about the Barbican Centre’s renewal plans and have your say via the public consultation (which is open until February 17) here.
