Designing a Place Called Bankside: On Defining an Unknown Space in London

Abstract

In the north part of Southwark in London the local authority has become increasingly keen to promote an unknown area, known as Bankside. The primary focus of this strategy has been on the clear definition of this area as part of central London. Much of this strategy has been based on the precise definition of this area using design-based and architecturally-focussed landmarking, notably facilitated by the decision of the Tate to establish its new Gallery of Modern Art in the area. This it is argued has produced a heavily commodified landscape for (high) cultural consumption.