The Barbican Estate is a residential complex built during the 1960's and 1970's in Central London, in an area that was heavily damaged by bombings during World War 2. It is an example of a development with Brutalist Architecture and despite being a relatively new development in its entirety it is Grade II listed hence protected.
Although largely comprising of residential units, the complex also has the Barbican Centre (an arts, drama, and business centre) amongst others, making it a hub for artistic and cultural events. Not to mention having several cafes, restaurants, and quirky shops.
I won't go on too much about the facts and figures of the Barbican Estate, rather just letting it's own website and Wikipedia do all of that. Although we do go round London often enough as 'tourists' (both our careers are London based) I haven't been to this part of London before so with a nudge to Gaz we paid the complex a visit one fine Saturday.
My motivation to see it? Curiosity to check out its Brutalist Architecture as well as it's supposed to be integrated green spaces and bodies of watering including a koi pond.
Well I'm not too sure about the koi pond, I didn't see it but perhaps we just missed it but the green spaces are there as well as the large bodies of water...
They even have a conservatory but alas only open on Sundays and Bank Holidays. From outside it looked interesting enough to warrant a need for a return visit when it is open.
So is the Barbican Estate beautiful? Ahh yes I suppose. I say that with an objective tone. Subjectively, I'm not too sure but it is certainly a very interesting place to spend time in.
