Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > West Midlands > Birmingham
Birmingham Central Library DP137657
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Birmingham Central Library DP137657
Birmingham Central Library, Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, West Midlands. General view of library (now demolished), from the north pediment of the Town Hall. Brutalist architecture designed by John Madin
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 11317680
© Historic England
Architecture City Concrete Modern Post War Urban
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Architecture
> Country
> England
> Architecture
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Birmingham
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> West Midlands
> Birmingham
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> West Midlands
> Related Images
> Historic England
> Architecture
> Modern Architecture
> Space, Hope and Brutalism
> Historic England
> Architecture
> Modern Architecture
> Historic England
> Towns and Cities
> Birmingham
> Historic England
> The way we were
> Leisure
> Libraries
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the iconic Birmingham Central Library, as it once stood proudly in Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, West Midlands. Designed by renowned British architect John Madin and completed in 1974, this Brutalist masterpiece was a defining symbol of post-war urban architecture in the city. The image, taken from the north pediment of the Town Hall, showcases the library's raw, concrete exterior, which was both admired and controversial in equal measure. The building's bold, geometric forms and unapologetic use of concrete epitomized the Brutalist ethos, reflecting the industrial heritage of the region while pushing the boundaries of contemporary design. The library's demolition in 2016 sparked heated debates among architects, preservationists, and the local community. While some celebrated the opportunity to make way for a new, more accessible library, others lamented the loss of an important piece of post-war architectural history. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the library's unique presence and the ongoing conversation surrounding the value and significance of Brutalist architecture in our cities. As we gaze upon this image, we are transported back to a time when concrete and steel reigned supreme in urban planning, and when the bold, uncompromising vision of architects like John Madin shaped the landscape of our towns and cities. The Birmingham Central Library may no longer stand, but its legacy lives on in the pages of history and in the hearts of those who cherished its audacious design.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.