Exhibition: Architecture for the People, Manchester Central Library

A hand-drawn architectural plan shows a cross-section of a multi-storey triangular building. The plan is pinned to a wall, surrounded by black-and-white architectural photographs and yellow notes, one labelled “DOMESTIC” in uppercase letters.
A display board shows six architectural drawings and photos of an airport extension. Some images are sketches of roads and terminals, others are black-and-white construction photos or site plans. A yellow label reads AIRPORT EXTENSION. 1972 at the bottom.
A collage of six photos shows the construction and celebration of a Chinatown gate and pavilion. Four are black-and-white images of the building process, and two are colour photos of finished structures and a street festival crowd. A note reads CHINATOWN 1986-87.

Architecture for the People, a free exhibition at Manchester Central Library, showcases the city’s own City Architect’s Department and the incredible range of municipal buildings they designed between 1902 and 2003 — from iconic landmarks like the Free Trade Hall to everyday essentials such as schools, libraries, public baths and even mortuaries.

I’ve been taking notes — I’m looking forward to seeing a few modernist buildings designed by the department I didn’t hitherto know about.

The exhibition is curated by Martin Dodge (University of Manchester) and Richard Brook (Lancaster University). It’s on display for just a few more weeks, until 28 February, so don’t miss it.

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