Circling the Square: Mies van der Rohe and James Stirling

Abstract

This article discusses the RIBA's recent exhibition:Circling the Square: Mies van der Rohe and James Stirling which offers a renewed examination of two iconic architectural schemes proposed for the same site in the City of London. Mies van der Rohe’s unrealised Mansion House Square and it’s
built successor, Number One Poultry by James Stirling, were both commissioned by architectural patron and developer Lord Peter Palumbo and represent a unique opportunity to draw comparisons between the design methods and solutions of two of the most highly regarded architects of the 20th century. The planning history of the two schemes spans over five decades from the 1960s to the 1990s, providing a fascinating insight into a complex and transitional period in the history of British architecture which saw the successive rise and fall of modernism and postmodernism, and the growth of an influential conservation movement. Intended to replace an eclectic block of Victorian listed buildings, both schemes were opposed by heritage groups and subjected to high-profile public inquirie to decide their fate. Debate over the value of Britain’s late twentieth century architectural heritage continues to the present day, with the recent controversial listing of Number One Poultry.