Emma Mykytyn Campaign Launched to Bring Back the Iconic Barbican Basin
A new campaign featured in the Modernist Estates Journal is calling for the much-loved Barbican basin to be returned to production. Supporters can add their names to the Bring Back the Barbican Basin petition.
The distinctive, space-saving washbasin was created during the development of London’s Barbican Estate in the early 1960s. Architect L. Michael Hohman, working alongside Chamberlin, Powell & Bon and designers at Twyford Bathrooms, developed the basin for the estate’s compact separate toilets.
Much of the rectangular basin’s body, pipework and fittings were recessed into the wall, allowing it to take up very little space. Its clever design also incorporated a mixer tap, a dimpled soap dish and a toilet-roll holder beneath the basin. An optional stainless-steel towel rail could also be fitted underneath.
The Barbican basin received a Design Centre Award in 1966, and an example is now held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Although best known for its use throughout the Barbican Estate, the basin became popular in homes, restaurants and commercial buildings across Britain. Twyford produced it in white and several fashionable colours, including pastel shades and the almost inevitable 1970s avocado.
Despite remaining in production for more than 50 years, the basin was discontinued in 2017 after Twyford Bathrooms was acquired by Swiss sanitary-products company Geberit. Its construction and installation were reportedly more complicated and expensive than its simple appearance suggested.
Since production ended, original Barbican basins have become increasingly difficult to find. Second-hand examples can sell for high prices, while contemporary designers have produced concrete basins inspired by the original design. Campaigners believe this continuing demand demonstrates that there is still a market for the genuine Barbican basin.
The petition is asking Twyford and Geberit to consider reintroducing the design, either permanently or through a limited-edition production run. Supporters hope it could return in time for 2029, when the Barbican Estate will celebrate 60 years since its first residents moved in.
Anyone who appreciates modernist architecture, innovative product design or clever solutions for small spaces is encouraged to sign and share the petition.
Sign the petition:
Bring Back the Barbican Basin
