30 St Mary Axe, also known as the Gherkin Building, is a prominent skyscraper located in the City of London. Here are some key details about this iconic structure:
Designed by the renowned architect Norman Foster and his firm Foster and Partners, the building was completed in 2003. Its unique shape, inspired by the Venus Flower Basket (a type of marine sponge), was intended to minimize wind forces and maximize natural light. The building's exterior features a series of circular floor plates that decrease in diameter as they ascend, giving it its distinctive, gherkin-like shape.
The site where 30 St Mary Axe now stands was formerly occupied by the Baltic Exchange, which was severely damaged by an IRA bomb in 1992. After the demolition of the old exchange, plans for the new development were put into motion. The project was controversial due to the historical significance of the site, but it was eventually approved, leading to the construction of this landmark.
Currently, the building houses office space, with tenants including major corporations and financial institutions. It also features a restaurant on the top floors, offering panoramic views of London.
Since its completion, 30 St Mary Axe has become one of the most recognizable buildings in London, often used in media and tourism promotions. It has received both praise for its innovative design and criticism for its cost and the perceived neglect of historical preservation.