London: Brutalist icons from the Barbican to Brunswick Centre

Exploring the capital’s most ambitious post-war modernist structures.

London is home to what might be my favorite place in the world: the Barbican Centre. I’ll never forget the first time I stepped into the central plaza, uncovering its monumental concrete labyrinth punctuated by serene bodies of water. I stood still, intimidated by its charming monstrosity.

London’s Brutalist masterpieces go far beyond the Barbican, with landmarks like the Alexandra Road Estate and the Brunswick Centre. These bold structures emerged in the post-war era, blending practical reconstruction with progressive ideals of modernity and equality. The city’s sprawling layout provided ample space for their grandeur, creating a striking contrast to the more traditional British housing styles.

This portfolio features photographs of the Barbican Centre, Hill Park, Alexandra Road Estate, Brunswick Centre, Lambeth Towers, Golden Lane, and the Ministry of Justice.

Written and photographed by Alexandra van der Essen