If you’ve ever been to London or seen pictures of the city’s skyline, you might have noticed a building that looks like an egg. This unique structure is formally known as The Gherkin, but it’s also commonly referred to as 30 St Mary Axe. It’s one of the most recognizable buildings in London and has become an iconic part of the city’s landscape.
The History of The Gherkin
The Gherkin was designed by renowned British architect Sir Norman Foster and his firm, Foster and Partners. It was completed in 2003 and officially opened in 2004. The building was commissioned by Swiss Re, a global insurance company that wanted a new headquarters in London.
The Design
The Gherkin is a 41-story skyscraper that stands at 180 meters tall. Its unique shape is what has drawn so much attention to it over the years. The building is shaped like an egg or a bullet, with its narrowest point at the top and widest point at the bottom.
The Gherkin’s exterior is made up of thousands of diamond-shaped panes of glass that reflect light during the day and give the building a glowing effect at night. The shape of the building also allows for natural ventilation and lots of natural light to enter its interior spaces.
The Building’s Features
The Gherkin has several features that make it stand out from other buildings in London. One such feature is its energy efficiency – the building uses half as much energy as a typical tower block due to its unique shape and design.
Inside, there are several floors dedicated to office space for Swiss Re employees, as well as several restaurants on the lower levels for both visitors and employees to enjoy.
Trivia
Some interesting trivia about The Gherkin includes:
- It was featured in the 2006 James Bond film “Casino Royale”.
- The building’s construction was completed in just three years.
- It has its own zip code: EC3A 8EP.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Gherkin is a unique and iconic building that has become synonymous with London’s skyline. Its distinctive shape and energy efficiency make it an important landmark in the city, and its many features ensure that it will continue to be an important part of London’s landscape for years to come.
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