What Is the Curved Building in London?

By Anna Duncan

London is known for its iconic architectural landmarks, from the Tower Bridge to the London Eye. But one such building that has recently caught the attention of visitors and locals alike is the curved building located in the heart of London’s financial district.

What is the Curved Building in London?

The curved building, officially named 20 Fenchurch Street but more commonly known as “The Walkie-Talkie,” is a commercial skyscraper located in London’s financial district. It was designed by architect Rafael Viñoly and completed in 2014.

What makes it unique?

The most distinctive feature of The Walkie-Talkie is its unique shape. Unlike most skyscrapers that have a uniform shape, The Walkie-Talkie has a strikingly curved design that widens towards the top. This unique shape was not just for aesthetic purposes – it was also designed to reduce wind turbulence around the building.

Another notable feature of The Walkie-Talkie is its Sky Garden. Located on the 35th floor, this public space offers stunning panoramic views of London’s skyline and features landscaped gardens, restaurants, and bars.

Controversies surrounding The Walkie-Talkie

While The Walkie-Talkie has become an iconic landmark in London’s skyline, it has also faced several controversies since its completion. In 2013, during construction, it was reported that sunlight reflecting off the building was melting parts of a car parked nearby. This phenomenon became known as “the Fryscraper” and led to changes being made to the building’s design.

Additionally, in 2017, a video went viral showing strong winds near The Walkie-Talkie creating a vortex effect that knocked over several pedestrians walking nearby. This incident raised concerns about public safety around tall buildings and led to further scrutiny of The Walkie-Talkie’s design.

Conclusion

The Walkie-Talkie is a unique and striking addition to London’s skyline, with its curved design and Sky Garden offering a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. Despite facing controversies and criticism, it remains a popular landmark that continues to draw in crowds.