Barbican Renewal Unveils Visionary Designs for a Cultural Icon’s Next Chapter
A bold new chapter is beginning for one of London’s most treasured architectural and cultural landmarks. The Barbican Centre has unveiled fresh designs for its ambitious Renewal programme—ushering in a once-in-a-generation transformation that will revitalise the complex while preserving its radical spirit.
At the heart of the project are imaginative reimaginings of the Barbican’s most iconic spaces: the lush Conservatory, the much-loved Lakeside Terrace, and the dramatic, Brutalist Foyers. New CGI images reveal a tantalising glimpse into the centre’s future, where layered histories meet innovative thinking and sustainable design.
Barbican Conservatory: Kin Creatives for Allies and Morrison and Asif Khan Studio
This unveiling marks the start of the second stage of public consultation, following resounding support from the first round—more than 90% of respondents backed the initial proposals. This next phase invites the public to engage with the evolving plans and help shape the future of a site that welcomed over 1.5 million visitors last year alone.
“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 for Buildings and Renewal
Exterior and pond: Kin Creatives for Allies and Morrison and Asif Khan Studio
The Renewal Highlights
Led by Allies and Morrison with Asif Khan Studio and supported by a multidisciplinary team of engineers, lighting designers, sustainability specialists and landscape architects, the first phase of the Renewal (2025–2030) includes:
Foyer: Kin Creatives for Allies and Morrison and Asif Khan Studio
A fully accessible Conservatory: Featuring theatrical planting, new water features, and daily public access, transforming this hidden urban oasis into a welcoming green heart for the city.
A restored Lakeside Terrace: Complete with revitalised fountains, climate-conscious landscaping, ambient lighting, and improved seating—creating an inviting civic space that reconnects people to nature and place.
Flexible, inclusive Foyers: Designed to blur the boundaries between art, architecture and daily life, these reimagined spaces will foster openness and creativity, offering improved access and facilities for all.
Crucially, the plans have been co-designed with young people aged 18–30, ensuring the Renewal is responsive to the next generation of cultural audiences and creators.
Barbican Conservatory: Kin Creatives for Allies and Morrison and Asif Khan Studio
With £191 million committed by the City of London Corporation—funding 80% of the first phase—attention now turns to securing additional support through fundraising. Subject to planning approvals, construction is due to begin in 2027, with completion aligned to the Barbican’s 50th anniversary in 2032.
As the Barbican Renewal gathers pace, it signals not only the preservation of a Brutalist icon but a powerful reimagining of what a cultural centre can be in the 21st century—open, connected, and built for the future.
For more information and to contribute your voice to the consultation, visit barbican.org.uk/renewal
