Brutalism has been making a comeback in recent years. Especially prominent on social media, these mammoth concrete buildings provide ample visual fodder for both professional and amateur photographers around the world. Ironically enough, brutalist buildings have often been the subject of scathing criticism from the public. In London in particular, it’s been an uphill battle trying to get these buildings the recognition they deserve, with the famous Hayward Gallery being refused listed building status in the UK despite its addition to the World Monuments Fund protected list in 2011 ? not to mention the demolition of the iconic Robin Hood Gardens residential estate in 2017 after being denied listed status in 2009. Now, a famous brutalist tower is being given a new lease on life by architectural firms Studio Egret West and Ab Rogers Design.
Balfron Tower was originally designed by renowned architect Erno Goldfinger, who was also responsible for designing the famous Trellick Tower and a controversial residence in Hampstead that angered resident Ian Fleming, who in turn named the Bond villain Goldfinger after the architect. The tower is located in Poplar, East London, and has gone on to become something of a icon since its completion in 1967. It is currently a Grade II listed building. Intended for social housing, the local housing authority began refurbishing the building, which had fallen into decline, in 2011, bringing it up to current standards. Nonetheless, the Balfr...