Barbican launches global competition for new public furniture design
The Barbican Centre has kicked off an international contest to find a designer or team for a fresh furniture collection for its public spaces, part of a £231 million Renewal programme. This project, running from 2026 to 2029, aims to create up to 500 pieces, like armchairs, sofas, coffee tables, communal benches, bar stools, and stackable seating, all with a focus on accessibility, flexibility, and sustainability. These new pieces will feature in key areas such as the Lakeside, Sculpture Court, and Learning Spaces, along with updated foyers designed by Allies and Morrison and Asif Khan Studio. Since its debut in 1982 with custom designs by Robin Day, the Barbican has seen numerous updates. Applications are due by 28th August 2026, with finalists to submit tenders in September and the final choice expected in November.
Key facts
- Barbican Centre launched international competition for new public furniture
- Part of £231 million Renewal programme
- Up to 500 pieces to be produced between 2026 and 2029
- Designs include armchairs, sofas, coffee tables, benches, bar stools, stackable seating
- Accessibility, flexibility, sustainability are central to the brief
- Furniture to be placed in Lakeside, Sculpture Court, Learning Spaces, and redesigned foyers
- Original furniture by Robin Day from 1982 has been largely replaced
- Applications due 28th August 2026; winner announced November 2026
Entities
Artists
- Robin Day
Institutions
- Barbican Centre
- Allies and Morrison
- Asif Khan Studio
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom