The Southbank Centre's Grade II listing is a momentous occasion, marking the end of a 35-year-long battle for recognition of brutalist architecture in Britain. This iconic arts complex, constructed between 1949 and 1968, has finally been acknowledged for its architectural significance, despite being once voted Britain's ugliest building. But this isn't just about preserving a concrete structure; it's about celebrating a style that has been both loved and hated. 'The lack of listing had become a complete anomaly,' said Catherine Croft, director of the Twentieth Century Society (C20). 'The Southbank Centre is admired as one of the best brutalist buildings in the world, so this decision is obviously very well deserved and long overdue.'
The story of the Southbank Centre is a fascinating one, beginning with Winston Churchill's Conservative government and its scorched earth policy after the Festival of Britain. This led to the creation of the Southbank Centre in the uncompromisingly brutalist style of Norman Engleback, who led London County Council's architectural team. Brutalism, as an architectural movement, has had its ups and downs in public affection and critical standing, but it has been rediscovered by a new generation of admirers in recent years.
However, the Southbank Centre's journey to recognition has not been without its twists and turns. The abolition of the Greater London Council in 1986 led to the creation of the South Bank Board, which sought to generate more income from the site, and the reviled 'concrete monstrosities' were an obvious target for redevelopment. Numerous proposals were put forward over the next four decades, from cosmetic tweaks to outright demolition, including a 1989 proposal by Terry Farrell and a £70m Richard Rogers scheme from 1994. 'The battle has been won and brutalism has finally come of age,' said Croft. 'This is a victory over those who derided so-called 'concrete monstrosities' and shows a mature recognition of a style where Britain led the way.'
The Southbank Centre's Grade II listing is a significant moment for architectural heritage in Britain, and it invites us to reflect on the power of brutalism. While some may still see it as ugly or aggressive, the Southbank Centre demonstrates its real power lies in its buildings: things of supreme heft, surprising beauty, and audacious ambition. So, while traditionalists may still be spitting feathers, the Southbank Centre's listing is a victory for those who appreciate the beauty and significance of brutalist architecture.
