New homes in London: brutalist apartments in a sixties Barbican tower block

Brutalist architecture fans will be able to buy a new home, above, in Blake Tower an original Sixties listed Barbican block.

The stern exterior of the former YMCA hostel remains largely intact but inside, the 17-storey tower is being reconfigured to create 74 flats, from studios to penthouses, due for completion this year.

The project offers sleek, in-keeping, up-to-date interiors in a renovated wrapping. So prized is the exterior, English Heritage insists on five-year maintenance inspections.Each flat will retain an original bush-hammered concrete hallway wall, but architects Conran + Partners have gone for a softer interiors mix of white surfaces, bespoke joinery, concealed lighting, brass and terrazzo fittings and fixtures redolent of the Sixties. Sliding “pocket” doors, hall cupboards and bedroom window bench seats save space.

Barbican’s characteristic open external stairways will be kept, while the entrance lobby is being upgraded and a concierge reception installed. Prices from £725,000. Call Redrow on 020 3538 3719.