Brutalism London’ – the ‘Marmite’ of architecture. Love it or loathe it, London is home to epic examples of the best Brutalist Architecture. In fact, the avant-garde structure of the building was also meant to reflect the programme of events happening inside – creating a synergy between form and function that is reflected elsewhere in the building. For example, in the interior’s “classless-designed” bars and restaurants and the open foyer policy that allowed public access during opening hours. National Theatre One of the best places for immersing yourself in Brutalism in London (or just to get a good photo), Camden’s Alexandra Road Estate was built in 1978 by Neave Brown as an ambitious, idealistic social housing project at a time when council housing was often at the centre of experimental, avant-garde architecture. Listed as Grade II* in 1994, it’s a uniquely atmospheric place to visit today, with two public walkways adorned in greenery and a central park. Work on the recreation centre began in 1971 and dragged right on through to 1985. During that time the project was stalled by labour disputes and political struggles in Lambeth council during the late 70s and early 80s. The project was nearly abandoned several times.

Brutal London: Construct Your Own Concrete Capital

I’m fascinated by English b rutalist architecture. My interest was initially triggered by reading James Ballard’s novel High-Rise, its depiction of the effect that a building can have on the human psyche. It is very powerful. Brutalist architecture is enigmatic, mysterious and rather breathtaking’.Along with its neighbour the National Theatre, the Southbank Centre is part of what gives the southern side of the Thames a distinctly Brutalist feel. The largest arts centre in Europe, it hosts popular talks, musical performances and festivals, as well as contemporary art exhibitions at the Hayward Gallery and a street food market on the weekends. We move out to London zone 5 for the ‘Number 1’ Croydon Brutalist building (not our ranking, but its actual title!). The Barbican area was devastated by bombing during WWII and the replacement residential buildings that make up the Barbican Estate were completed by the early 1970s. There’s the City University building in Northampton Square, Finsbury, which was designed by Sheppard Robson and built between 1960 and 1976; Elia Mews in Islington, designed by the Greater London Council and built in the late 60s; and Quaker Court in Banner Street, Bunhill, also designed by the GLC and built at a similar time.

Brutal Outer London: The First Photographic Exploration of Brutal Outer London: The First Photographic Exploration of

Weston Rise. Picture: Simon Phipps / Extracted from Brutal London by Simon Phipps. (Image: Archant) The ‘Seven Sisters’ Moscow 1947-1953 Image: Howard Morris We asked Alisa her feelings about British Brutalism.Of course, not all brutalist architecture is doomed, with some celebrated more than others. The Southbank Centre complex, including the Hayward Gallery, Queen Elizabeth Hall and Royal Festival Hall, and the adjacent National Theatre are marvels of engineering that have become icons of the city, both architecturally and culturally where they play host to numerous plays, shows and exhibitions every year. Our cloakrooms are currently closed so avoid bringing large bags with you. Long umbrellas will not be allowed in the gallery. Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in. Despite all the positive attention modernist and brutalist architecture has gained over the last decade, the future of most of these constructions is still uncertain. In many cases it still depends on the real estate market demands and local governments who struggle with their maintenance. Consequently, they are either being doomed to demolition, negligence or renovation with little respect towards their original design.” Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.