Iconic London Buildings
As scaffolders in London, we are in awe of some of the amazing architecture London has to offer. If London is famous for anything it has to be it’s architectural landmarks from Big Ben to Buckingham Palace, it really is home to some remarkable buildings. Some dated centuries ago, yet being the dynamic, 21st world city London is also home to some outstanding modern buildings too! Should you be visiting London, or simply just have an interest in London architecture then we would like to share some of our favourite, iconic buildings with you.
Big Ben
Big Ben is one of the most recognisable symbols of London, designed and built in 1859 by neo-gothic architect Augustus Pugin. At it’s time of creating Big Ben was the largest and most accurate four-faced striking clock in the world, standing at 96m the tower is a British cultural landmark recognised all over the world and is one of the most prominent symbols of the United Kingdom and parliamentary democracy. In 1970 the clock tower became a Grade II listed building and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
The Gherkin
Designed by architect Norman Foster, the Gherkin stands at 180m tall and was one of the first built steel-and-glass behemoths of its kind in London. Although it’s harder to pick it out of a sea of skyscrapers that has swept the city in recent years, this pickle shaped dome is still one of the most unique buildings in London. The Gherkin is a complete icon of the capital and has featured extensively in TV shows and movies, including Harry Potter.
Trafalgar Square
One of London’s most beloved landmarks, Trafalgar Square itself is home to fountains, plinths and Nelson’s column. Around Trafalgar Square lies other amazing architecture including the National Gallery and St Martin in the Fields church.
The Shard
Similar to the Gherkin, the shard is also an example of a glass dominated infrastructure. Designed by modern architect Renzo Piano, the Shard is actually the tallest building in Europe, standing a staggering 319m. With a viewing platform on the 72nd floor members of the public are more than welcome to zoom up in a lift and take in the extravagant views of the city.
The O2 Arena
In commemoration of the 2000 millenium, the O2 Arena or the Millenium Dome as it was once known is one of the most publically accessible iconic buildings in London. The O2 Arena is a multi-entertainment venue, which hosts restaurants, bars, a multiplex cinema and an arena that plays host to major music artists and sports events.
When visiting the O2 Arena you can even climb the 52-metre-tall edifice and walk along its roof for spectacular views of the entire capital.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is where England’s Royal History began, some parts of Westminster Abbey date back to 1245 where layers of history can speak about London’s wars, religious changes, aspirations, culture and power. In 1066 the first ever official coronation took place here with William the Conqueror starting a tradition that is still in force nowadays.
Arcelor Mittal Orbit
For the London Olympics in 2012, something extra was needed for the skyline at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Designers were to provide ideas for an Olympic tower at least 100m tall, the Arcelor Mittal Orbit was designed by Sir Anish Kapoor and Cecil Balmond. Standing at 114.5m tall the building consists of an elevator and stairs which lead to the observation deck. The red tube surrounding it is actually the world’s longest and highest tunnel slide. Visitors circle around the tower 12 times in a 40-second trip, looking at London’s dramatic cityscape as they slide along!
Lloyds Building
Designed in 1986 by architect Richard Rogers, this 95m tall building consists of concrete, stainless steel and glass, this building is also referred to as ‘mechanical cathedral’. The Lloyds Building is also known as the inside out building, designed in the style of true Bowellism the services of the building like ducts, lifts are placed on the outside to maximise space in the interiors. Along with its innovative design, the Lloyds Building was the first time that 12 external glass lifts were used in Britain.