Barbican Centre reveals £240m revamp design images

The Barbican Centre, in the City of London, opened in 1982 on London's largest post-war bomb site

London's Barbican Centre has unveiled new design images as part of its plans to refurbish three of its well-known spaces - the conservatory, lakeside, and foyers.

The proposed upgrades, which include a new water feature, form part of the Centre's wider renewal programme, with construction expected to begin in 2027.

The goal is to complete the works two years ahead of the Barbican's 50th anniversary in 2030.

In an earlier statement, the Grade-II listed cultural destination, which opened in 1982, acknowledged that the building had "deteriorated significantly" over the years.

'Inclusive, sustainable and meaningful'

After more than 90% of respondents to the first consultation held earlier this year supported the initial proposal, the designs have since been updated.

Two co-design groups, including people aged 18-30 years old were involved in this update, the Centre said.

The plans include works to the lakeside terrace, the foyers being redesigned to be more inclusive and with improved facilities.

The Barbican Centre hopes the work will be completed by 2030

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the public's enthusiasm for our plans,"

"These new images reflect a vision for the Barbican Centre that stays true to our unique heritage and bold character while making us an inclusive, sustainable and meaningful place for everyone," Philippa Simpson, Director of Buildings and Renewal said.

The plans include upgrading the conservatory with additional planting

In December, the City of London Corporation, the Centre's founder and principal funder alongside fundraisers committed £240m to support the first five-year phase of works.

Last year, the Corporation said the Barbican Centre was in need of £451m worth of essential works based on an estimate from a consultant

This is to be spread over the next 20-25 years and includes repairing and replacing infrastructure to meet accessibility and net-zero requirements.

The second round of consultation is set to run until 2 June.