A new museum will open in London. It will be dedicated to a unique style of architecture.

One of the last remaining Brutalist school buildings in the UK will soon house the Museum of Brutalist Architecture.

Brutalism is no stranger to British residents. Examples? The Barbican Centre , the National Theatre , or Trellick Tower . But until now, England has not had a museum dedicated to this architectural style. It's time to change that.

The first-ever Museum of Brutalist Architecture in Britain will soon open on the grounds of Acland Burghley School in Camden . Of course, it will first undergo a major renovation, funded in part by the National Heritage Fund .

Brutalist Architecture Museum Project / photo: Reed Watts

The museum's location is no accident: Acland Burghley is one of the last remaining Brutalist school buildings in the country.

The hexagonal assembly hall and the adjacent main building were completed in 1968 and designed by the post-war architectural firm Howell, Killick, Partridge & Amis .

The hall was initially intended to serve the local community. Lectures , boxing matches , and even opera performances have been held here. Unfortunately, this is no longer possible due to, among other reasons , limited architectural accessibility resulting from ill-considered modifications in later years.

Thanks to a £1 million grant and a major refurbishment, the hall is set to regain its original architectural features and become open to the public again.

Acland Burghley Assembly Hall Renovation Project / Photo: Reed Watts

There will also be a new exhibition space, and part of the building will be designated as the Museum of Brutalist Architecture .

According to school principal Nicholas John , this is an important step for the entire local community.

"For our neighbors, safe, accessible spaces like this hall can be a lifesaver. A hall for all will give young people, families, and community groups a place to connect, learn, and feel a sense of belonging. It will also ensure that this unique place remains accessible and inspiring for generations to come," he said, as quoted by ianVisits .

The renovation project was designed and will be led by Reed Watts Architects .

- Together with the school, its staff and students, we are working on [...] revitalizing the building by restoring access for the local community and adapting the facility to modern standards - we read on its website.

Construction work is scheduled to begin in April 2026, and the museum should open a year later.