About this guest author: Martin Jones is a journalist by day and wanderer by night, or well, during his vacations from work. He loves to travel Asia as well as writing about his exploits for a slew of online publications. In his spare time, Martin watches his beloved Barnet and reads countless fiction novels.
Most wanderlusters are aware of prominent structures such as Big Ben and Westminster Abbey in London, but as far as architecture goes, the city’s skyline is as cutting edge as any in Europe.
There are many projects in the works at the minute. Dezeen covered the proposed plan to include a cycling utopia where people can cycle above the city’s overground trains on a futuristic cycle path. Additionally, there are plans to construct a huge bridge that will link up the north and south of London. Or maybe it’s the possible redevelopment of Crystal Palace’s immense glass structure that is the most intriguing news of all for outsiders.
Whether you’re versed on pressing architectural affairs or not, London has such a diverse canvas when it comes to architecture that millions on millions of people flock to the capital every year to take in this vast metropolis. That said, let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable architectural wonders situated in London that have sprouted up in the last 20 years.
1. The Gherkin
Original image found here
2. The Shard
95-storeys high, The Shard is another modern phenomenon. Along with the London Eye it is the premier viewing platform to cast an eye over the rest of the city. From afar, it looks like a contemporary take on the Ancient Egyptian pyramid as it touches the upper reaches of the city’s skyline — although the building nearly didn’t get completed due to financial issues. If it weren’t for investors in Qatar, The Shard would’ve stood half-built. And even to this day, large parts of The Shard remain empty with huge amounts of office space staying untouched since its opening.
3. Wembley Stadium
Image courtesy of Wembley Stadium
Nowadays, you can get guided tours around the stadium, and peruse the memorabilia on show in the stadium’s museum. Also, the venue has taken on added responsibility this year. According to Betfair who cover the Champions League extensively, all of Premier League club Tottenham Hotspurs’ European games will be played at Wembley Stadium. So, for traveling sports fans, this is a great way to take in the history of British football as well as catching having the opportunity to catch a Champions League game. And don’t forget, the England national team also play their home games at Wembley.
4. City Hall
Original image found here
5. The Millennium Dome
Original image found here
As far as its appearance goes, it’s probably worthy of its fifth spot on this list. It’s basically like a huge purpose built white marquee in the centre of Greenwich in the South of London next to the River Thames.
Are there any other contemporary structures you admire in London? Let us know in the comments.
