Barbican Conservatory to close for £231m restoration
Over 2,000 plant cuttings are being offered to the public before the venue shuts for three years.
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The Barbican Conservatory is offering more than 2,000 free plant cuttings to the public. This initiative precedes a three-year closure for a significant restoration project that will commence in January. The Grade II listed arts venue is set to undergo a £231 million overhaul, which includes the development of a climate-controlled habitat designed to enhance plant health.
Plant Adoption Events
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Ahead of the closure, the Barbican is collaborating with Wayward Plants Reuse Centre to distribute plant cuttings, including species like Monstera, Ficus, and Tradescantia. Plant adoption events are scheduled for September 13 and December 2, with advance booking required via the Barbican website. Additional dates are planned for specific member groups, including Young Barbican members on November 29.
These events will also provide information on the Conservatory's architectural history and the development of its extensive plant collection, which currently houses 800 species. The first plant adoption event was held last week, and a second event on September 13 is already fully booked, according to The Standard.
Restoration Aims and Funding
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Dr Philippa Simpson, the Barbican's chief operating officer, stated that the restoration's primary aim is to create a healthier environment for the plants and to enable more people to enjoy the space and its future activities. The project is part of the wider Barbican Renewal programme, a substantial investment in the centre's future.
The City of London Corporation has committed £191 million towards the £231 million required for the 2025-2030 phase of the renewal. Further funding is expected to be sought through philanthropic and partnership support to achieve the full artistic and civic ambitions of the programme. The redevelopment plans also include installing a new lift and staircase to provide access to raised balconies, relandscaping for optimal plant growth, and ensuring full building accessibility.
The Barbican's distinctive brutalist foyers and lakeside terrace will also be redeveloped as part of the project, with a focus on preserving the building's heritage. The Conservatory, which opened in 1984, currently opens several times a month. Following the restoration, it is planned to be open daily from 2030, with entry remaining free.
Questions this report answers
+How many free plant cuttings is the Barbican Conservatory offering?
The Barbican Conservatory is offering over 2,000 free plant cuttings to the public. These cuttings are available through several adoption events scheduled before the venue closes for its three-year restoration project.
+When will the Barbican Conservatory close for restoration?
The Barbican Conservatory is scheduled to close for its three-year restoration project starting in January. The venue will undergo significant redevelopment aimed at improving plant health and visitor experience.
+How much will the Barbican Conservatory restoration project cost?
The restoration project for the Barbican Conservatory is estimated to cost £231 million. The City of London Corporation has committed £191 million towards this figure for the 2025-2030 phase of the renewal programme.
+When are the next plant adoption events?
The next plant adoption events are scheduled for September 13 and December 2. Advance booking via the Barbican website is required for these events, which offer the public a chance to take home free plant cuttings.
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