UK — In a striking blend of modernity and historical reverence, the interior of a ‘Type 71’ apartment in London’s renowned Barbican Estate has been expertly refreshed by the award-winning design studio, Black & Milk.
Led by Creative Director Olga Alexeeva, the London-based studio has tackled the spatial challenges of this iconic brutalist housing estate with a refined and modern design approach.
Originally completed in 1969, Gilbert House, where the apartment is located, is a testament to brutalist architecture, raised on concrete pilotis above the Barbican Lake.
The ‘Type 71’ apartment, characterised by its L-shaped plan and a south-facing balcony overlooking St Giles Church, was in need of modernisation.
The redesign was commissioned by a recently retired couple seeking a retreat within their beloved brutalist surroundings.
Olga Alexeeva’s minimalist approach preserved the apartment’s 20th-century character, which included pink fabric walls and vivid green paint while introducing contemporary elements and modern conveniences.
The design harmoniously blends vintage and modern furniture and art, emphasising quality materials and meticulous design details.
The renovation respects the Grade II-listed status of the flat, maintaining its historic floor plan while strategically reconfiguring the space.
The open-plan living area features a clever division of space using oak wood and bespoke olive-green leather tiles, distinguishing the living and dining areas while adding functionality.
The bespoke kitchenette, designed by Black & Milk, pays homage to the original Brutalist characteristics conceived by architects Chamberlin, Powell, and Bon.
Eco-friendly materials and a contrasting fibreglass finish for sliding cabinet storage highlight the studio’s commitment to sustainability and modernist simplicity.
The Barbican Estate itself, developed as part of a utopian vision to rejuvenate post-war London, is celebrated as a masterpiece of Brutalist architecture.
Described by Queen Elizabeth as “one of the modern wonders of the world,” it remains a beacon of potential for high-density residential schemes.
Black & Milk, with over 20 years of design experience, continues to unveil innovative residential projects across London, including recent work in the iconic Battersea Power Station.
Reflecting on the Barbican project, Olga Alexeeva stated: “The scheme attempts to show a thoughtfulness and direction of how these important interiors can be updated and modernised while still respecting the original architectural character and atmosphere.
“These new spaces sit happily alongside original interiors through a shared knowledge and a close attention to detail.”
