Thursday 21 May 2009

Birmingham rediscovered

I've recently had the opportunity to revisit Birmingham city centre several times, in particular for their German Christmas market, and can't fail to be impressed by some of the modern architecture and the way some buildings are lit. I discovered a tribute to Tony Hancock on Corporation Street, some interesting lighting outside the Bull Ring, and of course the iconic Selfridge's building is now an instantly recognisable landmark. There's a brooding statue by Antony Gormley at the western end of New Street. My favourite area is probably the Gas street basin area, with the Ikon Gallery, shops, reastaurants and canalside walks. Another thing is that the centre is remarkably compact and really you can walk from one side to the other in a few minutes.