Julia Barfield facts for kids

Julia Barfield, born in 1952, is a British architect. She is a director at Marks Barfield Architects, a company she started in 1989. Julia Barfield is best known for creating the famous London Eye with her husband and business partner, David Marks.

She is very interested in how nature designs and organizes things. She believes architects have a big job to help society and the environment. Julia Barfield works on many different projects. These include buildings for culture, schools, transport, sports, and fun places.

Becoming an Architect

Julia Barfield was inspired to become an architect by a family friend. She loved both art and science. She felt that architecture was a perfect way to connect these two subjects.

She studied at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London. This was from 1972 to 1978. During her studies, she spent a year in Lima, Peru. There, she helped design homes and a community center in poorer areas.

Her Career

After finishing her studies, Julia Barfield worked for a big architecture firm for nine years. In 1990, she and David Marks started their own company, Marks Barfield Architects. They designed many projects. These included buildings for fun, homes, transport, schools, and cultural places.

Julia Barfield also helps judge architectural awards and competitions. She gives talks at universities. She also advises students studying design at Cambridge University. She has helped guide future architects.

Famous Projects

The London Eye

The London Eye at sunset.

The London Eye is Julia Barfield's most famous project. In 1993, there was a competition to design a new landmark for the year 2000. Julia and David submitted their idea for the London Eye. Their design did not win the competition. However, they decided to build it anyway!

They finished building the London Eye in March 2000. It cost about £85 million. Julia Barfield once said, "The best thing about the Eye is the journey." She meant that the ride itself is just as important as the amazing view from the top.

Awards and Recognition

Julia Barfield and her company have won over 60 awards. These awards are for their great designs, new ideas, and for being good for the environment.

She was given a special honor in 2000. She became a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). This was for her work on the London Eye. Her company also won "Architectural Practice of the Year" in 2001. In 2003, they received a "Queen's Award for Enterprise & Innovation."