Tag: skyscraper

City Hall, London

City Hall, London

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City Hall is an understated yet impactful building on the riverside in London. It is the headquarters of the Mayor of London and Greater London Authority – where decisions are made with regards to transport and other issues in the city. It was completed in 2002 and its ten stories each offer views towards the river.

This has always been one of my favourite modern buildings in London, because its shape is understated; it’s not overwhelming yet the building’s presence is somehow fitting to its location and function.

Although my sketch can’t depict it, the inside features a spiralling ramp that circles the building, framing the main assembly hall on the ground floor. Light pours in through the river-facing glass panelling providing a professional yet inviting atmosphere. Somehow, I just find this building intriguing!

Sky Garden, London (20 Fenchurch St)

Sky Garden, London (20 Fenchurch St)

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Otherwise known as the Walkie Talkie, this skyscraper at 20 Fenchurch Street features a restaurant more than 100m in the air. The elegant shape of the windows gives way to some of the best views in London.

  • the enormous windows, view from the restaurant area
  • the shape of the building allows for the curved panoramic view

I’ve sketched the building from a few angles to try and give the shape justice. There is a balcony just outside the curved window area.

This is the picture I took while I was at the Sky Garden. As you can see, the views over the city, the Thames and its bridges are spectacular. The building uses steel framing and strong glass panelling to achieve this.