Planning and Listed Building consent was granted for a new structure on an existing external terrace, forming part of our previous refurbishment on a two-storey penthouse at the top of the Barbican Tower.
Designated as a site of special architectural interest, our design is a careful contemporary interpretation of development on a historic site. As the existing terrace offers very little in terms of comfort, our scheme focuses on how the space can be reconfigured to withstand the exposed 40th floor weather conditions whilst taking advantage of the plentiful views and natural light.
For the space to be used to its full potential all year round, we developed a design to provide the residents with a new fully insulated and heated habitable space. In order to develop a contextually respectful but ambitious design, we took into consideration the building’s design heritage. The proposed internal and external materials compliment the Barbican’s material language and are not compromised by its condition. The overall result is a thoughtful, highly-crafted outdoor space with practical provisions.
Our previous refurbishment work focused on introducing texture, shadow and simulated cityscape lighting to the North facing penthouse. A feature single timber wall runs through the entire residence to unify the disparate spaces. The sliding and pivot doors, as well as the lighting create a variety of possible configurations to continue the radical spirit of the original Barbican interior detailing.
The artist Brad Lochore was commissioned to produce an artwork based on the shadows of nearby Bunhill Fields, consistent with the design concept to bring light and shadow in to the interior space.
Click to view storage sequence.