the walkie talkie building, officially known as 20 Fenchurch Street, is a distinctively shaped skyscraper located in the heart of London’s financial district. Completed in 2014, this 38-story building stands out from the surrounding architecture with its curved, convex shape that earned it the nickname “Walkie Talkie” due to its resemblance to the handheld communication devices.
Designed by architect Rafael Viñoly, the Walkie Talkie Building has garnered both praise and criticism for its unusual design. Some Londoners appreciate its modern and innovative look, while others find it to be a sharp contrast to the historical buildings that make up the city’s skyline. Regardless of where one falls on the spectrum of opinions, there is no denying that the Walkie Talkie Building is a significant landmark in London.
One of the most distinctive features of the Walkie Talkie Building is the Sky Garden located on the top three floors. This unique public space offers panoramic views of the city and provides a lush green oasis amidst the concrete jungle of London. Visitors can enjoy landscaped gardens, observation decks, restaurants, and event spaces while taking in breathtaking views of iconic sights such as the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the Shard.
the walkie talkie building’s curved shape serves a functional purpose beyond aesthetics. The concave design of the building creates a unique phenomenon known as the “death ray” effect. During certain times of the year, the reflective glass facade of the building has been known to concentrate sunlight and create intensely hot spots at street level. This unexpected consequence led to damage to vehicles and property in the surrounding area, causing the building to be dubbed the “Walkie Scorchie.” To address this issue, the building’s developer installed a series of horizontal fins along the facade to mitigate the sunlight reflections and prevent further damage.
Despite this controversial aspect of the building’s design, the Walkie Talkie Building has received several prestigious awards for its architecture and sustainability features. It was awarded the Carbuncle Cup for the worst new building in the United Kingdom in 2015, but it has also been recognized with the City of London Building of the Year Award and the RIBA Stirling Prize, among others. The building’s energy-efficient design includes features such as natural ventilation, rainwater harvesting, and high-performance glazing, making it a relatively sustainable addition to London’s skyline.
the walkie talkie building has also become a hub for businesses in the financial and professional services industries. As one of the tallest buildings in the City of London, it offers prime office space with modern amenities and convenient access to transportation hubs such as Fenchurch Street Station and Tower Hill Underground Station. Tenants in the building include a mix of international corporations, law firms, financial institutions, and technology companies, making it a vibrant and bustling center of commerce.
In addition to its commercial tenants, the Walkie Talkie Building has become a popular tourist attraction in London. The Sky Garden welcomes visitors from around the world who come to enjoy its panoramic views and unique garden setting. The building’s distinctive shape and striking profile have made it a favorite subject for photographers and Instagrammers looking to capture a different perspective of the city. Its central location also makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring London’s iconic landmarks and attractions.
As one of the most recognizable buildings in London, the Walkie Talkie Building has left a lasting impression on the city’s skyline. Its unconventional design, innovative features, and controversial history have made it a topic of conversation among architects, urban planners, and residents alike. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that the Walkie Talkie Building is a significant and memorable addition to London’s architectural landscape.