'Brutalist' Barbican estate celebrates 40th anniversary

Published by Jon Land for 24dash.com in Housing

When the first resident moved in 40 years ago today the Brutalist architecture of the Barbican estate inspired critics and admirers in equal measure.

The liberal use of concrete in the design of the flats and the three towers which dominate the development in the heart of the City of London has made it one of the capital's finest examples of the architectural style.

Built on the site of the former Cripplegate area which was virtually levelled in the Blitz, planners hoped to attract permanent residents back to the square mile.

Architect Geoffrey Powell won the competition to build the estate in 1954 and he based his design around the idea that a living environment should provide more than just accommodation.

He joined forces with Peter Chamberlin and Christof Bon and stated: "The intention underlying our design is to create a coherent residential precinct in which people can live conveniently and with pleasure."

Critics say that the concrete towers and maze-like floor plan prove that they were unsuccessful but the estate's 4,000 residents praise the green spaces within the estate, the spectacular views over London and proximity to the Barbican Centre - Europe's largest multi-arts and conference venue.

The centre's inclusion in the estate's construction not only ensures theatre, music, art, film, dance and library services are on the residents' doorstep but has meant that figures from the arts world rub shoulders in the blocks' communal spaces with politicians and city high flyers.

The estate houses 125 different types of apartments, ranging from studio flats and 2 or 3 bedroom maisonette style dwellings, right up to 5 bedroom penthouses and they remain highly sought after.

Prices currently range from £200,000 for a small studio, to over £1 million for a 5/6 bedroom penthouse flat.

Martin Farr, Chairman of the Barbican Residential Committee, said: "The Barbican Estate remains one of London's most iconic architectural achievements, as well as being a wonderful place to live in. I am delighted to celebrate this 40th anniversary, and I have no doubt that it will still be here in 40 years' time!"

Eddie Stevens, Housing and & Technical Services Director at the City of London, says: "Even now, 40 years after the first residents arrived, the flats are still highly sought after which is due, in part, to the exceptional service provided by the staff who work on and around the Estate."