Made in Birmingham
As part of a new exhibition organised by the BAA and RIBA, Rob was asked to declare what his favourite building in Birmingham was. It’ll be shown alongside the choices of other local architects at tonight’s awards event being held in the new Cube building. Picking a building and describing it in a 50 word limit proved to be both challenging and enjoyable so we decided to ask the rest of the staff members at Axis to do the same. Here are the first couple of results along with Rob’s submission:
Rob: Bournville Junior School Carillon
It lifts the soul every time I see it. Bulky swaggering scale, delicate details, bold asymmetry, endearing charm and a machine on the roof worthy of a Dr Who episode. Also, in these dark times we all need reassuring that the free market can occasionally be philanthropic. Different George though.
Liz: 83 Newhall Street
What is Birmingham’s identity? What has it been? What will it be? This small building presents an older Birmingham. Its indomitable existence neighbouring the positivity of commercial progression. A gesture of hope that each era can hold fast as Birmingham continues to progress, change and develop.
Becky: Ikon Gallery
It oozes contradictions. It’s old and new. It’s indoor but feels positively outdoor. You go in for the art, but leave having spent 2 hours in the shop, had lunch, but not actually set foot in the gallery. The café serves tapas but is so un-spanish. Yet, somehow it works!
