The Gherkin

30 St Mary Axe,  previously known as the Swiss Re building also commonly known as The Gherkin is a 180m (591 ft.) tall, neo-futuristic commercial skyscraper. Proudly standing in London’s primary financial district, it became the noticeable element of London’s modern architecture.

Admiring this marvelous and unique piece of architecture you may wonder who the designer was? The Gherkin was designed by Norman Foster and the Arup Group. The construction was commenced in 2001 and the building was opened in April of 2004. The site’s nickname came after the highly unorthodox building layout and its appearance. Having 27 floors, 360 degree panoramic views this fully glazed double skin facade building create an a familiar landmark on London skyline which stands on the ground of former Baltic Exchange, which used to be the HQ for global market. The Baltic Exchange was destroyed by the bomb detonated close to the building by the Provisional IRA.

City of London one of the leading centres of global finance. This view includes Tower 42, Gherkin,Willis Building, Stock Exchange Tower, Lloyd`s of London and Canary Wharf at the background.

Even though, the Gherkin is primarily the headquarters for commercial and business tenants such as Swiss Re, Standard Life, Kirkland & Ellis or Hunton & Williams, it is also offering various high class dining facilities.

Where to go for breakfast today?

If you are looking for a tasty breakfast and a cup of great, aromatic coffee, you should absolutely come by the Notes. The small venue surrounded by modern and lovely atmosphere, which also provides wines of excellent quality and Prosseco Cocktails for a reasonable price per glass.

If you are on a business trip and you would fancy a great lunch or a drink after work, you should definitely visit The Sterling. It is a great place to dine, while being surrounded by classy interior. There is also a terrace, which you are welcome to enjoy. Professional and attentive staff will be happy to serve you good quality food in generous portion sizes. The Sterling is highly recommended for private and corporate events.

Konditor & Cook offers a wide range of sandwiches, quiches and hot dishes, as well as, amazing biscuits, cakes and coffee. This amenity is a combination of legendary home-made quality food, friendly staff and quick service!

Shot of London’s famous skyscrapers including ‘the Gherkin’, Aviva and Tower 42 in the heart of it’s financial district, The City.

Also check The Shard

The most interesting facts according to Connect Click:

• The Gherkin won a number of architectural awards such as Best British Innovation 2003, Skyscraper Award 2003, Best Central London Office Development 2004, Best New London Building 2004, the Stirling Prize in 2004 which is a British prize for excellence in architecture.
• The building is featured in movies such as: Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince, A Good Year, Basic Instinct 2 or Woody Allen’s Match Point.
• The Gherkin’s top dome is known as the „lens”, which resembles the iconic glass dome of the old Baltic Exchange building.