Presenters Kiki Claxton and Jim Foy explore the intersection of public realm programming and the preservation of modernist properties like 2 Willow Road, The Homewood and 22 Parkside aka Wimbledon Glass House, highlighting efforts to connect historical architecture with contemporary audiences, and emphasizing the importance of these landmark buildings, designed by Erno Goldfinger, Patrick Gwynne and Richard Rogers, respectively, as embodiments of modernist principles that have adapted to current contexts.

The discussion focuses on enhancing public engagement through collaborations with academic and cultural institutions. Through these connections, we underscore the vital relationship between history and modernity, showing how the values of modernist architecture still resonate today.

Jim Foy is the Assistant Director for London for the National Trust. He is responsible for managing and preserving the organization's historic houses, gardens, and parks across the city, including the Modernist properties at 2 Willow Road and The Homewood. Additionally, Jim leads the Urban Places Program in London, a National Trust initiative to address unequal access to nature, beauty, and history within the urban environment. This program focuses on creating equitable opportunities for Londoners to enjoy the city’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Kiki Claxton is Cultural Programme Manager for London and Experience and Partnerships Curator for Clandon, both for the National Trust. Across these roles, Kiki works on the strategic development and curation of creative and cultural programs to affect change in how people engage intellectually and emotionally with history, art, and the urban environment. Kiki is currently completing a collaborative PhD with Newcastle and Durham Universities and the National Trust. Her research brings a new understanding to the colonial histories of National Trust by working with international artists and partners to diversify narratives about culture, history, and place while building a framework for improving institutional confidence in this area.