The Barbican Lakeside

The design behind the Barbican's waterways

Lakeside view by James DeavinBarbican Centre

The Lakeside

One of Chamberlin, Powell & Bon’s influences in designing the Barbican was Venice. It can be seen in the castle-like tops of some of the buildings, and the general atmosphere of a modern version of a watery medieval Italian city. It’s clearest down by the Lakeside.

Lakeside Terrace by James DeavinBarbican Centre

The Lakeside

Complete with fountains, ducks and greenery, this area quickly became a popular spot to gather on sunny days for the general public. But there are also private garden areas which can only be accessed by residents.

Barbican Residential Estate and Surrounding Area (1980) by City of LondonBarbican Centre

Planning the Lakeside

This coloured-in plan shows the areas of water in blue

Planning the Lakeside

 and the green spaces in green.

Planning the Lakeside

Although they have missed out the Bryer Court lake and Beech Gardens.

Planning the Lakeside

It's easy to see how integral green spaces and water were to the Barbican design.

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