The ever-evolving face of London architecture
Anyone who has ever gone to London can admit that the metropolis is a tremendous construction site. Structures are ceaselessly being torn down and new ones are built. Evidently, on the subject of old architecture, most of it is preserved by law and will not go anywhere. But often it is the case that a structure has outlived its purpose and does not offer any historical value, so it is replaced by a newer building. You may observe this for example with objects that were constructed in the previous century. This suggests that touring the city every couple of years, you will feel like you are arriving to a slightly different place. Whilst we will not be going into history – even a brief history of architecture is not concise – we will think about a couple of essential skyscrapers in London that have come to be part of the skyline, while also taking a look what stood prior to them.
This building that was developed by Land Securities needs no introduction as it is one of the most widely known objects in London. If you are attempting to imagine future architecture trends, this post modern structure can provide some clue as to what the London skyline 2020 may be like. Getting broader at the peak (to maximise floor space), it is dissimilar to anything else out there. What did it supersede? An unassuming 25 story office tower. While it was one of the first high rises in the area, it was also completely unspectacular. The current building, though controversial due to its shape, is certainly tremendously striking and offers some of the best views of London from its observation deck.
If you understand anything about notable real estate deals, you may possibly have heard about Evans Randall Investors successfully letting out an office building to a significant investment management enterprise for a record amount of money. The building was a new construction that substituted a 100 metre office building. While some London buildings cannot be replaced, this one had clearly become a burden. Visually stunning, but in practical terms awkward; its floor height wasn’t very ample. Plus, it clogged views of the rest of the city. The new building has a larger floor space, despite having fewer stories. On the subject of architecture and design, use is equally crucial as looks.
Occasionally one major landmark vanishes making space for another on the London landmark map. At the core of London’s theatre district, there stood for fifty years a building honoring all things Swiss. In 2007, it was replaced by a building featuring the world’s biggest candy store. Developed by McAleer & Rushe, it was also houses on the best examples of hotel design. Though some may lament the loss of the one building, the new one is certainly fascinating from an architectural point of view, and is definitely a favourite with tourists.
