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The Gherkin - an architectural illusion

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The iconic building of London has wowed many a tourist by its curvaceous glass appearance since its completion in 2003 and opening in 2004. But have we been somewhat misled by an impressive illusion?

The Foster and Partners 591 sq ft office building, constructed by Arup and Skanska, has been used to resemble London's dynamism as a City location in many different projects including the application for the 2012 Olympic games. The City tower also seems to remain relatively timeless in appearance despite plans for many more modern / state of the art landmark buildings, like the Pinnacle and Cheesegrater, set to grace our skyline.

But despite its overall curved glass shape, there is actually only one piece of curved glass on the entire building -- the lens-shaped cap at the very top.

A pure triumph in terms of architectural deception.


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This page contains a single entry by Andy Heard published on November 6, 2008 11:10 AM.

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