library
Coombes & Partners, Frederick Gibberd, H C Connell, 1958
140 High Street, Barkingside, Ilford, IG6 2EA
The library was built on an open site in Barkingside High Street. Circular library design copies nearby roundabout. Complex is set back from the pavement, to form a new local civic centre with a public space. Refurbished 1990 and 2011.
Barkingside, Fairlop
Ilford
128, 150, 167, 169, 247
10:00–16:30
Library is open to the public on Saturdays 10 - 4.30
The formation of the London Borough of Redbridge in 1965 created a new geographical centre at Barkingside. An undeveloped site south of the Fullwell Cross roundabout was chosen for a new regional town centre with a proposed new library and swimming baths. The library and baths were designed by Frederick Gibberd, Coombes & Partners in association with H C Connell, Borough Architect. Frederick Gibberd was already working in Essex in the 1960s as Leader of the Harlow Development Corporation Design Group, planning the Essex New Town.
The Library has a distinctive circular shape with a raised central dome, 16 sided with large clerestory windows. Single storey offices and reading rooms form an outer ring. The Library has had various internal changes since it was built with a major redesign in 2011 by Opening the Book. However the original design concept is still evident.
- Distinctive setting at the top of the High Street acting as a focal point for the area.
- Light and airy interior with a feeling of space
- Major internal redesign by Opening the Book 2011