Barbican Conservatory, a renowned landmark in London, to undergo significant restoration in a major renovation project.
The Barbican Conservatory, a popular spot among Londoners and tourists, is undergoing a significant renovation project led by Charlotte Harris and Sybille de Cussy. The project team includes experts such as Matthew Pottage, Karen Fitzsimon CMLI, Christopher Young, and Phil Griffiths [1].
Originally built to hide the Barbican's large fly tower, the Conservatory offers a tropical haven within the urban structure. The renovation aims to make the Conservatory more accessible, opening up previously out-of-bounds areas like the fly tower walkways [1].
The project is part of a recent renewal initiative focusing on redesigning the Barbican's Lakeside Terrace and Conservatory with an emphasis on sustainability, climate resilience, and enhanced accessibility. The design integrates eco-brutalist principles, involving advanced rain and stormwater management systems like bioswales and permeable paving to prevent leaks and improve drainage [1]. Passive climate control strategies, such as green roofs and strategic vegetation, help reduce operational carbon emissions by improving natural insulation and airflow. The restoration also includes vertical gardens, native and pollinator-friendly plants, and sustainable hardscaping using reclaimed timber and low-carbon concrete to blend environmental benefits with the Barbican's distinctive brutalist aesthetic [1].
In terms of accessibility improvements, the renewal is aimed at expanding accessible green spaces that are more usable for the public by introducing innovative planting and design solutions. This will make the Conservatory and adjoining outdoor spaces easier to navigate and enjoy across diverse visitor groups [1].
The timeline of the project appears recent, with these renewal efforts and design strategies highlighted in July 2025 sources, indicating ongoing or imminent implementation around this period [1]. While specific milestone dates are not publicly detailed in the results, the restoration and planting strategies seem underway or planned for near-term completion.
Work on site is expected to begin in 2027, requiring the closure of the conservatory for a period. The design focuses on the plants taking center stage and improving inclusivity and welcoming atmosphere [2].
For more information about the Barbican Conservatory, visit barbican.org.uk. The Conservatory can be found at Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS, and its telephone number is 020 7638 4141 [2]. The renovation project is described as a dream project by Charlotte Harris [2].
[1] Barbican Centre. (2025). Barbican Conservatory Restoration Project. [online] Available at: https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2025/article/barbican-conservatory-restoration-project [Accessed 15 July 2025]
[2] Barbican Centre. (n.d.). Barbican Conservatory. [online] Available at: https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2021/event/barbican-conservatory [Accessed 15 July 2025]
- The Barbican Conservatory renovation, led by Charlotte Harris and Sybille de Cussy, includes garden design experts such as Matthew Pottage, Karen Fitzsimon CMLI, Christopher Young, and Phil Griffiths.
- The project aims to make the Conservatory more accessible, with plans to open up previously out-of-bounds areas like the fly tower walkways.
- The renovated Conservatory will feature eco-friendly elements, including bioswales, permeable paving, green roofs, vertical gardens, native plants, and sustainable hardscaping.
- The renewal initiative also focuses on enhancing accessibility for diverse visitor groups, with innovative planting and design solutions to make the Conservatory and adjoining outdoor spaces easier to navigate.
- The project's timeline indicates that work on site is expected to begin in 2027, with the design focusing on the plants taking center stage and creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
