Onto the second part of our photography walk (PART 1) where the tall, looming skyscrapers dominate the skyline. The glassy exteriors give the buildings a very cold and distant feel yet serve as a window into the inner workings of each structure. 30 St Mary Axe (commonly known as The Gherkin) has become one of the more distinguished structures in the city ever since it’s construction over a decade ago. It’s glossy exterior and postmodern design really stand out from the copycat skyscrapers that surround it.
The elevators in the Leadenhall Building (also known as The Cheesegrater) add a unique sense of motion to what otherwise is a pretty plain structure in that it takes very few architectural risks. The design may have been impacted and changed during the planning stages as the original structure would have encroached on the protected sightline of St Paul’s Cathedral when viewed from Fleet Street and the west.
As we moved towards London Bridge it became apparent how much architects have started to rely on materials such as glass when designing their buildings. The Shard is of course a prime example of this but simply walking the city streets gives you a glimpse at the architectural diversity of this city. Because of the Great Fire of London many buildings and areas were heavily damaged and needed ongoing repair which goes some way to explaining the contrasting architectural styles around London.
No 1 London Bridge (completed in 1986) is a perfect example of this with it’s distinctive brown front being cut out of the corner and a skylight cut out at the top. Although it’s predominantely used as an office complex it’s unique design and location made it one of my personal highlights during the photowalk.
STYLEGRAM
Make sure to check out my latest photo journal from Budva in Montengero and my shoot with ASOS Menswear for the ‘As Seen On Me’ campaign. PART 1 of this photowalk is also online so give it a read and see us dive further into the heart of the city.
