What Is the Name of the Walkie Talkie Building in London?

By Alice Nichols

If you’ve ever been to London, you may have seen a tall, futuristic-looking building that resembles a walkie talkie. This building has become an iconic landmark in the city, and many visitors often wonder what its name is.

Well, wonder no more! The name of the walkie talkie building in London is 20 Fenchurch Street.

The History of 20 Fenchurch Street

Construction on 20 Fenchurch Street began in January 2009 and was completed in March 2014. The building was designed by architect Rafael Vinoly and developed by Land Securities. It stands at a height of 160 meters (525 feet) and has 38 floors.

The Unique Design of 20 Fenchurch Street

One of the most distinctive features of the walkie talkie building is its unique shape. It has a curved top that bulges outwards, which gives it its distinct walkie talkie-like appearance. This design was chosen to maximize floor space at the top of the building while minimizing its footprint on the ground.

Greenery and Sky Garden

Another unique aspect of this building is its inclusion of greenery and a public garden area called the Sky Garden. This space spans three floors at the top of the building and offers stunning panoramic views of London’s skyline. The Sky Garden features landscaped gardens, observation decks, restaurants, and bars.

Controversies Surrounding 20 Fenchurch Street

Despite its striking appearance and impressive amenities, the walkie talkie building has also been mired in controversy since its construction. In particular, there were concerns about how it would affect nearby historic landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Furthermore, during its construction phase, there were reports that sunlight reflecting off the building’s curved surface was causing damage to nearby properties. This issue has since been resolved by installing sun shades and other measures.

Conclusion

The walkie talkie building, or 20 Fenchurch Street, is a unique and iconic structure in the heart of London. Its distinctive design, inclusion of green space, and stunning views make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Despite some controversies during its construction, it remains a beloved landmark in the city’s skyline.