About Buildings + Cities 04 – Barbican Estate – Establishment Brutalism
Aug 29, 2016
Discover the captivating history of the Barbican Estate, a bold example of brutalist architecture. Dive into the unique planning challenges and visionary concepts that shaped this urban oasis. Explore the textured concrete surfaces and hidden spaces that make the estate feel alive. Hear imagined tales of residents navigating its intricate corridors and lofty views. Reflect on the legacy of brutalism, its reception, and the ongoing debate about urban identity. Join in as the hosts dissect the balance between architectural style and social substance.
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Barbican As A Self‑Contained City Quarter
- The Barbican is a coherent, monumental, car-free city quarter combining 2,000 flats with arts, schools and gardens.
- Its scale and unity make it a defining example of post‑war planning and late modernist ambition.
Why The Barbican Could Happen Here
- The City of London’s unusual legal and financial independence enabled long‑term, large scale projects like the Barbican.
- A massive wartime bomb site created the rare opportunity for such a radical redevelopment.
Planned Variety And Layered Circulation
- The Barbican intentionally varies scale and routes to create unpredictable movement and a strong sense of place.
- Raised public decks, sunk gardens and mega‑courtyards produce a layered, often disorienting urban experience.
