Everybody already loves the brutalist marvel that is the Barbican, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t get even better. The Barbie has revealed plans to re-activate its amazing Sculpture Court for everyday public use. 

Located above the Concert Hall and framed by the curve of Frobisher Crescent, the glorious one-acre courtyard was originally meant as a multi-purpose space in which to experience art and architecture. However after four decades, limited accessibility, deteriorating infrastructure and poor seating has meant the area is largely unused by the public.

This week the Barbican secured planning permission to upgrade the courtyard. Under the plans, Sculpture Court will get step-free access, climate-resilient planting, improved lighting, upgraded event infrastructure, accessible seating and enhanced wayfinding. 

The Barbican bosses want to bring the courtyard back into civic life, creating ‘a welcoming space for people and communities to gather, experience art and events, while protecting the heritage significance of the Grade II* listed landscape’. Works are expected to take place from summer 2028, alongside major refurbishments to the Barbican’s conservatory, theatre, lakeside terrace and foyers, with the Sculpture Court’s reopening pencilled in for 2030. 

Philippa Simpson, Chief Operating Officer at the Barbican Centre, said: ‘The Sculpture Court was originally conceived as a place where people could experience great art in a beautiful brutalist setting. We’re pleased our plans to bring this extraordinary space back to life have been approved by the City of London Corporation.’

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Plus, a career-defining Tracey Emin exhibition opens in London this month – here’s why it will be one of 2026’s greatest art shows. 

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