Rights Managed > Historic England > Architecture > Modern Architecture > Space, Hope and Brutalism
Central Library and Town Hall, Birmingham DP180935
Filename: DP180935.jpg
Size: 4256 x 2832 (4.4MB)
Date: 1st October 2013
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive.James O
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Urgency (1-8) 5=normal: 5
Source: Historic England Archive
Job Title: Staff Photographer
© Historic England Archive
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Central Library and Town Hall, Birmingham DP180935
Central Library, Paradise Circus, Birmingham, West Midlands. October 2013. General view of John Madins Brutalist Central Library (now demolished) in context with the cityscape
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 12990787
© Historic England Archive
Architecture City Concrete Modern Post War Urban
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Architecture
> Modern Architecture
> Space, Hope and Brutalism
> Towns and Cities
> Birmingham
> The way we were
> Leisure
> Libraries
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the imposing presence of Birmingham's Central Library and Town Hall, as seen in October 2013. The image, taken by James O. Davies for Historic England, showcases the architectural brilliance of John Madin's Brutalist masterpiece, which once stood proudly at Paradise Circus in the heart of the city. The Central Library, with its raw concrete exterior and bold geometric lines, is a testament to the post-war modernist movement that swept through urban planning in the mid-20th century. Its stark contrast against the more traditional Town Hall, with its ornate facade and intricate details, highlights the dynamic tension between old and new, traditional and contemporary. The concrete jungle of the cityscape surrounds the library, adding to its sense of isolation and fortress-like strength. The photograph invites us to ponder the role of such structures in our urban landscapes – monuments of a bygone era, or symbols of progress and innovation? Sadly, the Central Library, a beloved yet divisive icon of Birmingham, was demolished in 2016. This image serves as a poignant reminder of its unique character and the architectural legacy it leaves behind. The photograph also underscores the ever-evolving nature of our cities, where the old makes way for the new, and the past and future coexist in an intricate dance of change.
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.
