Last year, we reported that the Barbican Complex in London, a '70s Brutalist landmark once voted a top public eyesore, had become hot stuff as of late, proving popular with the city's top architects and bankers alike. Now, courtesy of a feature on House & Garden, we get to see inside one such sought-after unit in the sprawling complex, where a retired couple has grown to "love the concrete." The revamp, recently completed by local interior designer Maria Speake, focused on using reclaimed materials to render the space less like an airport lounge and more like a warm home.
Speake disposed of almost all of the existing furniture, replacing them with unrestored "raw" pieces and vintage rugs and textiles. Though the resin floor seems to contribute to the space's "coldness," Speake decided to keep it. In a playful twist, she added warmer textures with reclaimed parquet—not on the floor, but on walls and sliding doors. Other updates like the bathroom panelling and dining table were also made from old laboratory worktops. Get the full story and more photos on Home & Garden.
· The High Life [House & Garden]
· London's 'Ugly' Brutalist Landmark is So Hot Right Now [Curbed]
· 7 Other 'Hated' Buildings That Could Use More Love [Curbed]
Loading comments...