Early difficulties
From an early stage after its opening in 1982, it became clear that aspects of the Barbican Centre’s design created practical difficulties for visitors. In particular, the complexity of the internal layout and the lack of clear visual routes made orientation within the building challenging.
The foyers, although generous in scale, were interrupted by structural elements, service points, and changes of level. These features contributed to a sense of visual richness but did not always assist in directing movement through the building.
Wayfinding and access
The main entrance at street level, at the corner of Silk Street and Whitecross Street, was often regarded as unwelcoming and insufficiently prominent. Visitors approaching from the surrounding streets were not always able to identify a clear or direct route into the Centre.
These issues were not solely the result of inadequate signage but arose from the underlying spatial arrangement of the building, which had been designed as a sequence of interconnected spaces rather than as a structure organised around a single axis or point of entry.
1990s alterations
In the early 1990s, a programme of alterations was undertaken with the aim of improving access and orientation. This work was carried out by the design group Pentagram between 1993 and 1995.
The scheme introduced new colour schemes, graphic elements, signage, and additional structures within the foyers. A bridge was also inserted across part of the foyer to improve accessibility, including for wheelchair users.
Criticism of changes
While these changes addressed certain practical issues, they were widely criticised. The new visual elements were often seen as inconsistent with the original architectural character of the building.
Rather than simplifying the experience of the interior, the alterations were sometimes regarded as adding to its visual and spatial complexity. Some of the more intrusive additions were later removed.
Later refurbishment
A more comprehensive approach was taken in the early 2000s, when further work was carried out by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris. This phase focused on improving circulation, access, and clarity while respecting the essential character of the original design.
Changes included the reorganisation of entrances, particularly the development of the Silk Street entrance as the principal point of access, and the clarification of internal routes through improved spatial connections and signage.
Technical improvements
Further work has been carried out over time to address specific aspects of the building. This has included improvements to lighting, signage, and internal layouts.
The Barbican Hall underwent significant acoustic modifications in 2001–02, aimed at improving the quality and balance of sound. These changes formed part of a broader pattern of adaptation in response to practical experience of the building in use.
Architectural reflections
Christoph Bon, one of the architects of the Barbican scheme, later reflected on the realised building and identified areas in which it differed from the original intentions. In particular, he noted that wayfinding and the clarity of movement had not been as successful as he had hoped, and that the division of responsibilities between different bodies had weakened the sense of a unified development.
Continuing challenges
The Barbican Centre continues to operate as a major cultural venue, but the building presents ongoing challenges in terms of access, maintenance, and adaptability. Its structure, while distinctive, limits the extent to which changes can be made without affecting its character.
Future redevelopment
Proposals are currently under consideration for a major programme of renewal and redevelopment. These are expected to address ageing infrastructure, accessibility, and environmental performance, as well as adapting the building to contemporary patterns of use.
It is anticipated that this work may require the temporary closure of the Centre, with current expectations suggesting a closure period beginning around 2027, although details remain subject to planning and approval.
Overall perspective
The history of alterations and refurbishment at the Barbican Centre reflects the complexity of the original design. Changes have been necessary not because the building has failed, but because its ambitious and unconventional structure presents continuing challenges in use.
The successive phases of alteration demonstrate an effort to balance the preservation of a significant architectural work with the practical requirements of a modern public building.