Sunday, April 22, 2007

30 St. Mary's Axe







Also known as the "Gherkin" or the Swiss RE Tower was designed by Foster and partners and is located in downtown London in the center of the financial district of the city. Its aerodynamic form not only gives the Swiss RE a distinctive identity among neighboring skyrises, but also allows wind to flow around the building which minimizes the load on the structural system. The form of the building also serves to reduced wind deflection towards the ground level, and gives the building a very slim appearance. And though the tower is appears significantly less bulkey than other rectangular office buildings, the design of the Swiss RE still holds the same floor area as a rectangular building of the same size. Finally, the Swiss RE Tower is London's first environmentally progressive highrise as it is naturally ventilated and is designed to reduce energy expenditure.
Sarah Wade




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