British Cooling Towers – Sculptural Giants – Panel Discussion

In association with the Twentieth Century Society (C20), Margaret Howell will be hosting a panel to discuss the architectural and historical significance of British cooling towers and what their immediate future holds, chaired by Catherine Croft, Director of C20.

Tall enough to contain the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral, the concrete structures are an example of great technical skill and engineering and for many are a fond, familiar presence in the British landscape. The panel discussion will explore various viewpoints on the legacy of the remaining towers and will propose innovative suggestions for repurposing them to initiate wider debate on the country’s post-war industrial heritage. Architectural Historian, Otto Saumarez Smith and RIBA Curator, Valeria Carullo, will be amongst panellists.

C20 are undertaking a campaign to raise awareness of the immediate threat British cooling towers face and the challenges this presents regarding historical recognition and potential re-use.