Coventry was very forward thinking in it’s post-war housing schemes, with many modernist estates shown in contemporary books of the era as leading examples. Although the developments have been neglected over the years, some beautiful elements still remain, and I enjoy capturing these aspects.
Completed in 1964 by Wimpey, William Malcolm House retains many original details. Alongside Vincent Wyles House, high on a hill, the 15 Storey tower block commands views across Coventry. As of 2019, Vincent Wyles House is due to be demolished, and William Malcolm House refurbished.
Bell Green comprises of a number of flats, with a small shopping centre called Riley Square. This was where I went to the library, shopping, and the dentist when I was younger. Completed around 1963, the square is named after the founder of Riley Cycle and Riley Motors. The detailing on the flats is really interesting, wood panelling, concrete reliefs, floor tiles that can also be found in the Cathedral, beautiful typography and many more subtle architectural touches. The Sainsburys Archive have some lovely images of the square.