London is preparing to host the world’s first museum devoted entirely toBrutalist architecture, a movement that originated in the United Kingdom in the 1960s and has since been the subject of heated debate and conflicting interpretations. As reported by Domus magazine The Museum of Brutalist Architecture will be located in the historic Acland Burghley School, a Camden school complex designed by the firm Howell, Killick, Partridge & Amis and completed in 1968, considered one of the last remaining examples of the Brutalist school in the country. The choice of the location is not accidental: in fact, it is one of the most representative buildings of the architectural style, characterized by the expressive and unembellished use of materials such as concrete, wood, and steel, and by massive and rigorous volumes.
Brutalism is distinguished by the raw poetry derived from the objectivity of exposed materials and essential forms, conceived as a direct response to the needs of a complex and rapidly changing mass society. At the same time, however, the current was often stigmatized as an expression of a cold grayness, which in many cases led to decay, especially in urban suburbs. The creation of a museum dedicated to the movement in Britain represents an unprecedented event internationally, considering that until now there have only been temporary exhibitions, urban trails, installations and digital archives such as SOS Brutalism, but no permanent physical space aimed at collecting and enhancing the memory and legacy of Brutalism.
The redevelopment and adaptation of the space was entrusted to Reed Watts Architects, which undertook the restoration of the hexagonal assembly hall within the school complex, a Grade II listed building. The hall represents the manifesto of the Brutalist ethos, with its essential structure made of natural, raw materials such as wood and concrete, designed to accommodate numerous functions and reinforce the sense of community within the institution. However, over time, the environment has undergone inconsistent modifications that have compromised its original characteristics.
The restoration, developed in close collaboration with school staff, users and local authorities, aims to restore the hall to its original appearance, improving its accessibility, usability and environmental performance. Planned interventions include upgrading the facilities, optimizing access and furnishings, as well as arranging the technical and reception areas. The goal is to transform the hall into a “Hall for All,” a multipurpose space open to the community that will host exhibitions, events and performances, as well as the Museum of Brutalist Architecture, the first permanent museum dedicated to brutalism nationally and globally, accompanied by a physical archive that will complement existing digital resources. Renovations will begin in the summer of 2026 and are expected to be completed by 2027.
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| The world's first museum devoted entirely to Brutalist architecture is born in London |
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