The anatomy of a building: Denys Lasdun and the Royal College of Physicians

Discover London's most extraordinary building and the art of modern architecture. A unique exhibition marking the centenary of visionary architect Sir Denys Lasdun in his modernist masterpiece the Royal College of Physicians which turns 50 this year.

Celebrating the centenary of the birth of one of Britain’s greatest architects, Sir Denys Lasdun, on 8 September 2014, this remarkable exhibition examines the life and work of a hugely important figure in 20th century architecture.

This once in a lifetime show held in the iconic setting of Lasdun’s masterpiece, the Royal College of Physicians, also marks the 50th anniversary of this exceptional building: a Grade I listed modernist tour de force set amidst the grandeur of Regent’s Park. It remains today one of a tiny number of structures from the last 100 years to be granted this status by English Heritage.

It is a building that exemplifies Lasdun’s approach to architecture summed up in his famous remark, ‘our job is to give the client on time and on cost, not what he wants but what he never dreamed he wanted and, when he gets it, he recognises it as something he wanted all the time.’

This unmissable exhibition brings together the architect and his architecture, tracing his career, perhaps best known for the perennially controversial Royal National Theatre, from early years at the radical practice Tecton to international acclaim and influence. A more private side to the genius is revealed through personal effects, photographs (including a portrait by Cartier-Bresson), correspondence and even a cartoon by close friend Ronald Searle.

The display details the development of Lasdun’s magnificent design for the Royal College of Physicians: the project that catapulted him into the architectural major league. Drawing on family and archive material, a meticulously-assembled collection of letters, secret memos, sketches, the odd satirical Christmas card and draft plans, allows visitors to see how the scheme emerged into what has been described as ‘one of London’s most enthralling buildings’.

Central to the retrospective is an impressive array of rarely seen architectural models. These include Lasdun’s work at the Universities of London and Cambridge, the Keeling House flats in Bethnal Green and Royal National Theatre. The largest is of a monumental and unrealised scheme for a combined National Theatre and Opera House complex on the capital’s Southbank.

The Royal College of Physicians is one of the most brilliant modern buildings in London. With new signage and improved access, alongside a programme of architectural tours and events, it takes its place as the star exhibit in this incomparable exhibition celebrating its own anniversary and that of the birth of its creator.