Exploring the Brilliance of British Architecture
The Arts Society Ealing announces Special Interest Morning
One of the lectures examines London’s ever-changing skyline
July 21, 2026
Ealing residents will have the chance to immerse themselves in the creativity, controversy and sheer ingenuity of British architecture this summer, as The Arts Society Ealing hosts a Special Interest Morning on Wednesday 12 August at St Barnabas Church Hall, Pitshanger Lane.
Titled The Brilliance of British Architecture, the morning event offers two one-hour lectures exploring the architects, ideas and engineering feats that have shaped Britain’s built environment from the 17th century to the present day. Designed to be lively, colourful and accessible rather than technical, the session promises an engaging journey through centuries of innovation.
The first lecture examines London’s ever-changing skyline, tracing the capital’s architectural evolution before turning to the dramatic rise of modern towers. With more than 500 buildings over twenty storeys currently planned — and dozens set to soar to twice that height — the talk explores the best of London’s contemporary landmarks, including the Shard, the Gherkin, the Walkie-Talkie, the Leadenhall Building, the Scalpel and 22 Bishopsgate.
Attendees will hear about the engineering challenges behind these structures, the design breakthroughs that made them possible, and the social debates surrounding London’s rapidly shifting silhouette.
The second lecture focuses on acclaimed British designer Thomas Heatherwick, whose work has ranged from the Olympic cauldron to the reimagined London bus and Google’s striking new headquarters at King’s Cross. Over three decades, Heatherwick Studio has become known for its curiosity-driven approach and inventive solutions to design challenges around the world.
The talk explores the problems Heatherwick has tackled and the imaginative ways his team has responded, offering insight into one of Britain’s most influential contemporary designers.
Both lectures will be delivered by Ian Swankie, a Londoner known for his infectious enthusiasm for art and architecture. Swankie is a guide at Tate Modern, Tate Britain, Guildhall Art Gallery and St Paul’s Cathedral, and an accredited lecturer for The Arts Society. He also leads a popular weekly art lecture group in Richmond and is a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Art Scholars.
The Special Interest Morning includes two lectures, refreshments and a short Q&A. Registration: from 10:00am First lecture: 10:30am Finish: 13:15pm Venue: St Barnabas Church Hall, Pitshanger Lane, Ealing W5 1QG. Tickets cost £25 per person and must be booked in advance by contacting Susan Parsons at spsecretarytase@gmail.com.
The Arts Society Ealing belongs to the large umbrella organisation, The Arts Society, previously known as the National Association of Decorative and Fine Arts Societies (NADFAS), which was founded in 1968. The local Society has a membership of around 140.
The Arts Society Ealing holds 10 lectures a year and more information can be found by visiting its web site.
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