A Brutalist Landmark Pauses
London’s iconic Brutalist giant, the Barbican Centre, will temporarily close its doors for a full year starting in June 2028 as it undergoes an extensive renovation. This major project is being spearheaded by Allies and Morrison, Asif Khan Studio, and Buro Happold.
The Barbican, a Grade II-listed architectural landmark designed by Chamberlin, Powell & Bon and constructed between 1965 and 1982, stands as a renowned mixed-use development, blending residential, recreational, and cultural elements. It is home to one of Europe’s most prominent multi-arts programs, featuring the Barbican Art Gallery, the Curve, Level 2 Gallery, an acclaimed concert hall, theatre venues, cinemas, and the much-admired Conservatory. The building’s striking presence has been recently captured in photographs by David Altrath.
images © David Altrath
The Year-Long ‘Barbican Renewal Programme’
Nearly forty-five years after the centre first opened, signs of wear and aging infrastructure have prompted the launch of the Barbican Renewal Programme. Led by Asif Khan Studio, Allies and Morrison, and Buro Happold, this comprehensive renovation aims to secure the Barbican’s future for generations to come. The initiative will restore and reimagine key public areas—including the dramatic foyers, lakeside terrace, and the beloved Conservatory—while also upgrading vital infrastructure. Improvements will focus on enhancing accessibility, sustainability, and flexibility to better support the centre’s creative ambitions.
the centre was designed by Chamberlin, Powell & Bon and built between 1965 and 1982
The Renovation: What Will Close and What Will Remain Open
The centre will close from the end of June 2028 until summer 2029, with most Barbican venues and programs undergoing construction during this period. However, the Barbican cinemas located on Beech Street will stay open, and access to the surrounding residential estate will be maintained. To keep the Barbican’s cultural influence alive throughout London, creative partnerships and off-site programming will continue while the main building is closed.
The City of London Corporation has already pledged £191 million toward the first phase of the renewal project—covering about eighty percent of the total needed investment. The remainder will be sought through a fundraising campaign. This significant pause coincides with a milestone, as the Barbican approaches its fiftieth anniversary in 2032.
the closure will run from the end of June 2028 until summer 2029
Project Info:
Name: Barbican Renewal Programme | @barbicancentre
Architects: Allies and Morrison, Asif Khan Studio, Buro Happold
Closure Dates: June 2028 — Summer 2029
Photography: © David Altrath | @davidaltrath
