The Tate Modern over the years

The Industrial Age, Bankside Power Station designed by
Sir Gilbert Scott, source unknown

After the demise of Bankside's power station in 1981, there was a period of great uncertainty for not only the architecture but it's surrounding community. The Tate Modern regenerated and re-purposed the otherwise derelict building and refreshed it's surrounding area both economically and culturally. The riverside is now consequently identifiable as a cultural hub as a direct result of engaging schemes such as this. I am greatly intrigued by the re-use and the re-purpose of industrial buildings not only for their aesthetic purposes but for the wider engaging conversation they create with their communities. The former Bankside Power Station was originally opened in 2000 as the Tate Modern, it houses the world's most popular collection of modern and contemporary art.   

The Tate Modern in 2000, image from Tate.org.uk

The role of the gallery has changed over time and sixteen years later a lifeline has been created. The new Tate Modern opened to the public successfully last month. The project combines the Boiler House building with the new Switch House atop the unearthed Tanks. This extension has provided 60% more display space and it is the most important cultural building to be opened in the UK for the past 20 years.

Herzog and de Meuron's Ground Floor Plan of the new Tate Modern

The night view of Bankside - Photograph taken from BBC

Street presence, the new perforated brick building
meets its industrial counterpart, own photograph 

Herzog and de Meuron were part of the original project team alongside landscape Architects VOGT and designer Jasper Morrison; they have reunited to reinvent the Tate Modern for this significant phase. The famous Turbine Hall retains all of it's glory at the heart of the Tate Modern whilst surrounded by an array of different galleries, spaces for theatrical performance art and learning. The development of the urban realm surrounding the building completes the transformation of an industrial ruin to an esteemed public space. Below is the time lapse video showing the construction of the new phase.

I look forward to many more trips to the Tate Modern because each time I visit, I never fail to feel inspired or in awe of the art, design and architecture. There are always many more spaces to enjoy and works to ponder over. Thanks for reading. 

The city is all around us, 360 degree views are offered
on the viewing platform of the Switch House,
own photograph  

A space for contemplation and impressive views of the city of London,
own photograph