In keeping with the wider Estate, the Foyers are notable for their monumental use of reinforced concrete, left exposed with a hand-hammered finish. This is showcased in huge columns set in contrast with luxurious materials such as brass handrails and wood block flooring. 

Even the toilets are distinctive, their walls lined with terrazzo made from crushed stone. The Foyers have huge scale across multiple levels linked by broad staircases.

The Foyers link directly with the Estate’s popular Lakeside, characterised by its brick-paved terrace with fountains set in circular brick beds.

This wide terrace provides key views of the Centre including its three floors of cafes and restaurants, Conservatory and the exteriors of the Art Gallery and Library. The terrace features the famous Barbican concrete, but also displays areas clad in vertical white tiles and balconies with the ‘boat edge’ design seen throughout the Estate. At the centre, a rounded, glazed staircase tower links the different levels.  
 

The Barbican Conservatory is the largest 20th century glasshouse in London and is one of the capital’s most unique and remarkable spaces. It hosts around 1,500 species of plants, in a dramatic setting built around the 100ft tall Theatre fly tower.

As well as its striking contrast of concrete with vibrant planting, the Conservatory has an innovative bespoke steel structure and aluminium-framed glazing, with planting beds formed from the brick paving used across the Estate.