For lovers of art and architecture, London’s Bankside – a stretch along the south bank of the River Thames in Southwark – is a wonderful example of how the sweep of history has merged the treasures of the past with our contemporary cityscape.

As you head west from Shad Thames, where once the warehouses that powered London’s mercantile wealth have become living monuments to the story of Victorian Britain, you can take in The Tower of London across the water. Built by William the Conqueror, this one-time fortress, palace and gaol is now, of course, open to the public, housing the Crown Jewels among countless other historical riches.

St Paul’s Cathedral, one of the most iconic buildings in London, stands back from the north bank – a monument to the Baroque style of Sir Christopher Wren’s re-imagining of the capital’s architecture after the Great Fire of London. 

Shakespeare’s Globe, meanwhile, was re-built in 1997 to bring The Bard’s best creations to today’s theatregoer; and the Tate Modern, until 1981 a gargantuan power station, now houses some of the most exciting contemporary art in the world. 

Just as the Thames has changed along with our culture, traditional galleries and architectural norms are challenged by insurgent new artists and spaces. 

Triptych Bankside is the creation of the late, great Michael Squire, and is one of his more bold recent designs. Its sweeping curves and rippling façade mimic the ebb and flow of the Thames to create a counterpoint to the Tate Modern’s new angular extension. 

While all the historical landmarks mentioned above are visible from the development, its own design speaks to the ever-changing landscape of the city, challenging the alternative, square brick, new development language of London. It will also house a new campus for The Art Academy London, helping to create a new generation of artists, with studio space, two gallery and exhibition spaces and an auditorium. 

Amidst all this, with the new homes created alongside the art, Squire and Partners have brought elegant apartment living to heart of Bankside.

Further information

Contact William Gibbons