Umbau: Altering Architecture
German Historical Institute, London
Umbau explores the layered architectural history of 17 Bloomsbury Square, a building that has undergone continuous transformation over more than 350 years. Originally built in the 17th century as part of the early development of Bloomsbury, the building has been reshaped by a succession of notable occupants—including architect John Nash in the late 18th century, the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain from the mid-19th century, and, since the 1980s, the German Historical Institute.
Curated and designed by Studio Charlotte Harris, the exhibition traces the building’s evolving form through detailed historical research by Stephen Levrant Heritage Architecture. Presented as a case study in episodic and interventional design, the project reflects broader themes of architectural adaptation, urban reuse, and the layering of history within the built environment.
As part of Open House London, visitors are invited to experience the spatial transformations of 17 Bloomsbury Square through morphological drawings, archival photographs, and interpretive displays. These materials guide audiences through the building’s former configurations, uses, and appearances—offering insight into its architectural and social evolution.
The exhibition is situated within the rooms of the building itself, allowing visitors to engage directly with the physical spaces under discussion. Visual and textual elements are integrated into the setting to create an immersive and site-responsive experience.
German Historical Institute, London
Umbau explores the layered architectural history of 17 Bloomsbury Square, a building that has undergone continuous transformation over more than 350 years. Originally built in the 17th century as part of the early development of Bloomsbury, the building has been reshaped by a succession of notable occupants—including architect John Nash in the late 18th century, the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain from the mid-19th century, and, since the 1980s, the German Historical Institute.
Curated and designed by Studio Charlotte Harris, the exhibition traces the building’s evolving form through detailed historical research by Stephen Levrant Heritage Architecture. Presented as a case study in episodic and interventional design, the project reflects broader themes of architectural adaptation, urban reuse, and the layering of history within the built environment.
As part of Open House London, visitors are invited to experience the spatial transformations of 17 Bloomsbury Square through morphological drawings, archival photographs, and interpretive displays. These materials guide audiences through the building’s former configurations, uses, and appearances—offering insight into its architectural and social evolution.
The exhibition is situated within the rooms of the building itself, allowing visitors to engage directly with the physical spaces under discussion. Visual and textual elements are integrated into the setting to create an immersive and site-responsive experience.