Press release: C20 Society unveils alternative South Bank Centre scheme

The Twentieth Century Society is delighted to announce its alternative vision for the South Bank Centre extension scheme. The plans published in the latest issue of the Twentieth Century Society magazine, incorporate the best elements of the South Bank Centre’s current proposals – like the new piazza, circulation routes and central steps – while at the same time preserving the scale and character of this important cultural hub.

Our alternative scheme, drawn up to our specification by architect and illustrator Sally Rendel, also retains the historic former director’s office of the Hayward Gallery (now the Concrete Bar), and a scaled down central foyer. There is also no ‘liner building’ – one floor of which would be restaurant space under the SBC current plans – which this means that key views into the site from Waterloo Bridge as well as visual links with the National Theatre are maintained.

Catherine Croft, Director of Twentieth Century Society said, “This alternative vision shows that the South Bank Centre complex can easily accommodate change. It is proof that imagination and understanding of the existing buildings could achieve a sustainable and sympathetic solution – an improved experience at the South Bank Centre, without the glass boxes that overwhelm and dwarf the site.”

For more information please contact Catherine Croft – Director@c20society.org.uk or Henrietta Billings henrietta@c20society.org.uk  T: 020 7250 3857