After its initial conception back in 2000, we are finally in the penultimate year prior to Shard London Bridge's unveiling. The skyscraper, currently under construction in Southwark, London will be the tallest building in the EU, have 72 floors and, most uniquely, will have a triangular shape and be clad completely in glass.
Renzo Piano designed the 1017ft building, which was initially conceived on the back of a restaurant menu after he was inspired by London's train tracks and ship masts, and after its completion next year it is set to become a multi functional building, containing living, working and leisure spaces.
The Shard's early designs were among the first to be progressed following a report compiled after the World Trade Centre terrorist attacks and so has been designed to maintain stability under difficult conditions.
Piano says he considers his design to be like a 'shard of glass' and it will certainly cut a fine figure through London's infamous skyline, as it will sit near St Paul's Cathedral, Tate Modern & Tower of London.
The use of angled panes of glass will reflect the state of natural conditions around the building and mean that the structure has the potential to look completely unique depending on the London weather conditions of any given day. There will also be a public viewing gallery on the top floor, offering the widest reaching views across London.
For more information on the Shard London Bridge development see www.shardlondonbridge.com
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