The Walkie Talkie skyscraper, officially known as 20 Fenchurch Street, is a commercial skyscraper in the City of London. It was designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Violy and completed in 2014. The building has a distinctive shape, with a bulging facade that has been compared to a walkie-talkie.
The Walkie Talkie is one of the tallest buildings in London, standing at 160 meters (525 feet) tall. It has 34 floors above ground and 6 below ground. The building is used for office space, with tenants including Hiscox, law firm DLA Piper, and investment bank Numis Securities.
The Walkie Talkie has been controversial since its construction. Some critics have called it an “eyesore” and a “blot on the landscape.” Others have praised its innovative design and its contribution to the London skyline. In 2015, the building was awarded the Carbuncle Cup, an annual prize given to the ugliest new building in the United Kingdom.
1. Height
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is 160 meters (525 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest buildings in London. Its height is a key part of its design, as it gives the building its distinctive shape. The bulging facade of the building is designed to maximize the amount of natural light that enters the building, and the height of the building allows for stunning views of London from the upper floors.
The height of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper has also been controversial. Some critics have argued that the building is too tall and that it does not fit in with the surrounding architecture. However, others have praised the building’s height, arguing that it is a bold and innovative design that adds to the London skyline.
The height of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a key part of its design and has been a major factor in the building’s success. The building’s height gives it a unique and recognizable shape, and it has become a popular tourist destination.
2. Floors
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper has 34 floors above ground and 6 floors below ground. This unique design allows the building to accommodate a large number of tenants while also providing them with access to natural light and views of the surrounding area.
- Space utilization: The large number of floors allows the building to accommodate a variety of tenants, including offices, retail stores, and restaurants. The efficient use of space also means that the building has a relatively small footprint, which minimizes its impact on the surrounding environment.
- Natural light: The floor-to-ceiling windows on all sides of the building allow natural light to penetrate deep into the interior. This creates a bright and airy work environment and reduces the need for artificial lighting.
- Views: The upper floors of the building offer stunning views of London, including the River Thames, the Tower of London, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. These views are a major selling point for tenants and visitors alike.
- Structural integrity: The six floors below ground provide the building with a solid foundation and help to distribute its weight evenly. This ensures that the building is able to withstand high winds and other extreme weather conditions.
The unique design of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper, with its 34 floors above ground and 6 floors below ground, makes it one of the most iconic and recognizable buildings in London.
3. Use
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is primarily used for office space, with tenants including Hiscox, DLA Piper, and Numis Securities. This is due to several factors, including the building’s location, design, and amenities.
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is located in the City of London, which is the financial district of London. This makes it an ideal location for businesses that need to be close to their clients and partners. The building is also well-connected by public transportation, making it easy for employees to get to work.
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is designed to be efficient and comfortable for office workers. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light and stunning views of London. The building also has a number of amenities, including a fitness center, a restaurant, and a rooftop garden. These amenities help to create a positive and productive work environment.
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a popular choice for businesses that need high-quality office space in a convenient location. The building’s unique design and amenities make it an attractive option for businesses that want to create a positive and productive work environment for their employees.
4. Tenants
Hiscox, DLA Piper, and Numis Securities are three of the most prominent tenants in the Walkie Talkie skyscraper. These companies are all leaders in their respective industries, and their presence in the building is a testament to the quality and prestige of the development.
- Financial services: Hiscox is an international insurance company, DLA Piper is a global law firm, and Numis Securities is a leading investment bank. The presence of these three companies in the Walkie Talkie skyscraper reflects the building’s status as a major hub for the financial services industry.
- Global reach: Hiscox, DLA Piper, and Numis Securities all have a global reach, with offices in multiple countries around the world. Their presence in the Walkie Talkie skyscraper gives them a prestigious address in one of the world’s leading financial centers.
- Commitment to quality: Hiscox, DLA Piper, and Numis Securities are all committed to providing their clients with the highest quality of service. Their presence in the Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a sign of their commitment to providing their clients with the best possible experience.
The presence of Hiscox, DLA Piper, and Numis Securities in the Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a major coup for the development. These companies are all leaders in their respective industries, and their presence in the building is a testament to the quality and prestige of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper.
5. Architect
Rafael Violy is an Uruguayan architect who designed the Walkie Talkie sk
yscraper. He is known for his innovative and sustainable designs, and his work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Pritzker Architecture Prize.
Violy’s design for the Walkie Talkie skyscraper was inspired by the traditional shape of a walkie-talkie. However, he also incorporated a number of innovative features into the design, such as the use of a diagrid structural system and a double-skin facade. These features helped to reduce the building’s energy consumption and make it more environmentally friendly.
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper has been controversial since its construction. Some critics have called it an “eyesore” and a “blot on the landscape.” However, others have praised its innovative design and its contribution to the London skyline. In 2015, the building was awarded the Carbuncle Cup, an annual prize given to the ugliest new building in the United Kingdom.
Despite the controversy, the Walkie Talkie skyscraper has become a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take a lift to the top of the building for panoramic views of London. The building also has a number of restaurants and bars, as well as a rooftop garden.
Rafael Violy’s design for the Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a unique and innovative contribution to the London skyline. The building’s distinctive shape and sustainable features have made it a popular tourist destination and a talking point for architects and critics alike.
6. Completed
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper, officially known as 20 Fenchurch Street, was completed in 2014. The building’s construction was a major undertaking, and it is now one of the most iconic buildings in London.
- Architectural significance: The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a unique and innovative architectural design. Its distinctive shape and use of sustainable features have made it a popular tourist destination and a talking point for architects and critics alike.
- Economic impact: The construction of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper created jobs and boosted the local economy. The building is also home to a number of businesses, which contribute to the city’s tax base.
- Cultural impact: The Walkie Talkie skyscraper has become a symbol of London’s financial district. The building’s distinctive shape has been featured in numerous films and television shows, and it is a popular spot for tourists to take photographs.
- Sustainability: The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a sustainable building that uses a number of energy-efficient features. These features help to reduce the building’s environmental impact and make it more cost-effective to operate.
The completion of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper in 2014 was a major milestone for the building and for the City of London. The building is a unique and innovative architectural achievement that has had a positive impact on the city’s economy, culture, and environment.
7. Nickname
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper, officially known as 20 Fenchurch Street, is a commercial skyscraper in the City of London. It was designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Violy and completed in 2014. The building has a distinctive shape, with a bulging facade that has been compared to a walkie-talkie, hence its nickname.
The building’s nickname is not only a playful reference to its shape but also a reflection of its function. The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is primarily used for office space, and many of its tenants are in the financial services industry. The nickname “The Walkie Talkie” therefore evokes the image of busy professionals communicating with each other, which is an apt description of the building’s purpose.
The nickname “The Walkie Talkie” has also had a significant impact on the building’s popularity. The unique and memorable name has made the building a recognizable landmark in London, and it is often featured in films, television shows, and other media. The nickname has also helped to create a sense of community among the building’s tenants and visitors.
In conclusion, the nickname “The Walkie Talkie” is an important part of the building’s identity. It is a playful and memorable name that reflects the building’s shape, function, and popularity. The nickname has helped to make the Walkie Talkie skyscraper one of the most iconic buildings in London.
FAQs about the Walkie Talkie skyscraper
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper, officially known as 20 Fenchurch Street, is a commercial skyscraper in the City of London. It was designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Violy and completed in 2014. The building has a distinctive shape, with a bulging facade that has been compared to a walkie-talkie, hence its nickname.
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Walkie Talkie skyscraper:
Question 1: What is the height of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper?
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is 160 meters (525 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest buildings in London.
Question 2: How many floors does the Walkie Talkie skyscraper have?
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper has 34 floors above ground and 6 floors below ground.
Question 3: What is the primary use of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper?
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is primarily used for office space, with tenants including Hiscox, DLA Piper, and Numis Securities.
Question 4: Who is the architect of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper?
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper was designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Violy.
Question 5: When was the Walkie Talkie skyscraper completed?
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper was completed in 2014.
Question 6: What is the nickname of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper?
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is nicknamed “The Walkie Talkie” due to its distinctive shape.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the Walkie Talkie skyscraper. For more information, please visit the building’s official website.
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a unique and iconic building that has become a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take a lift to the top of the building for panoramic views of London. The building also has a number of restaurants and bars, as well as a rooftop garden.
Tips for Visiting the Walkie Talkie Skyscraper
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper, officially known as 20 Fenchurch Street, is a commercial skyscraper in the City of London. It was designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Violy and completed in 2014. The building has a distinctive shape, with a bulging facade that has been compared to a walkie-talkie, hence its nickname.
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of things to keep in mind when planning your visit.
Tip 1: Book your tickets in advance.
Tickets to the Walkie Talkie skyscraper can be purchased online or at the ticket office on the day of your visit. However, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially if you are visiting during peak season. You can book your tickets on the building’s official website.
Tip 2: Arrive early.
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a popular tourist destination, and there can often be queues to get in. It is recommended to arrive early, especially if you are visiting during pe
ak season. This will give you plenty of time to queue and get to the top of the building without feeling rushed.
Tip 3: Take the lift to the top.
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper has 34 floors above ground and 6 floors below ground. The best way to get to the top of the building is to take the lift. The lift is located in the lobby of the building.
Tip 4: Enjoy the views.
Once you reach the top of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper, you will be rewarded with stunning views of London. You can see for miles in every direction, and you can even see some of London’s most famous landmarks, such as the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Tip 5: Visit the Sky Garden.
The Sky Garden is a public garden located on the top three floors of the Walkie Talkie skyscraper. The garden is free to enter, and it offers stunning views of London. The Sky Garden also has a number of restaurants and bars, where you can relax and enjoy the views.
Tip 6: Take your time.
There is a lot to see and do at the Walkie Talkie skyscraper. So, it is important to take your time and enjoy the experience. Don’t rush your visit, and take the time to explore all that the building has to offer.
Summary:
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a unique and iconic building that offers stunning views of London. By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit.
Conclusion
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper, officially known as 20 Fenchurch Street, is a commercial skyscraper in the City of London. It was designed by Uruguayan architect Rafael Violy and completed in 2014. The building has a distinctive shape, with a bulging facade that has been compared to a walkie-talkie, hence its nickname.
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a unique and iconic building that has become a popular tourist destination. The building offers stunning views of London, and it is home to a number of restaurants, bars, and shops. The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is also a sustainable building that uses a number of energy-efficient features.
The Walkie Talkie skyscraper is a significant addition to the London skyline. The building is a testament to the creativity and innovation of its architect, and it is a symbol of London’s financial and commercial importance.
