To really see the changes giving London its updated look, head to St. Helen’s Church, a well-preserved example of twelfth-century architecture. Then contrast it with the infamous “Gherkin” (St. Mary’s Axe) rising behind it. That contemporary building was constructed on the site of a 1992 IRA bombing to commemorate the city’s commitment to continually moving forward.
Another nearby example of modern design is Sir Richard Rogers’s celebrated building for Lloyd’s Insurance, styled somewhat like a sophisticated Erector Set. The stone remains of Lloyd’s original doorway from the 1800s stand solemnly to its right, a reminder of London’s rich history.
Yet another of Rogers’s buildings, Lloyd’s Registry for Shipping, at 71 Fenchurch Street, is also a modernist masterpiece, with a courtyard garden, exterior glass elevators and a sleek, ship-shaped fountain. It was built in 1997 behind the classical façade of the original Lloyd’s Registry.
Of course, many of London’s shops, bars and restaurants also boast the most modern design elements while paying homage to the past. For example, the Hoxton Apprentice in Hoxton Square, Hackney, is an excellent restaurant that employs ex-homeless workers and trains them in the gastronomic arts. The high ceilings, wood floors and huge windows were once part of a Victorian schoolhouse, now transformed into a popular, stylish and socially conscionable eatery (profits go back into the charity/training program).
To really get a glimpse of London’s architectural style, stay in a chic New York Habitat vacation accommodation in the City, such as:· A breathtaking 2-bedroom vacation accommodation in City-Islington (LN 659) on the penthouse level. This apartment is built in a former luxury office and comes with two baths, laundry/dryer, dark oak flooring and two spacious outdoor terraces that allow striking views of the skyline.
· A crisp, clean-lined studio in City-Islington (LN-212) on the third floor of a period walk-up. This vacation accommodation has a double bed, laundry/dryer, decorative Victorian fireplace and lots of light from the large windows. To contrast the white walls and appliances, there’s a black antique leather sofa.
· A sleek studio in City-Islington (LN-681) on the lower-ground floor of a period building near Tower Bridge. This rental accommodation comes with a stylized and comfortable double bed, laundry/dryer, wood floors, open-plan kitchen and unique windows.
For fans of high design, there’s no better city than London—and no better place to stay than in a New York Habitat vacation rental in London.
Let us know your favourite building in London with a comment below.
I’ve always like the old architectures but i can give way to the modern, it’s happening all over the world.
The 2012 Olympics Games should have been given to Paris and not London but anyway… All the best to the Foggy City
It is not surprising in the least that London is fast becoming one of the most modern architectural cities. It is fascinating that you can be in a thirteenth century castle and walk only blocks and be in an extremely modern part of the city.
The apartment in the phot above looks quite amazing with a lot of windows and a great view! I am thinking about going to London in the spring, so when I begin to look for accommodations, I will definitley inquire about this one!
Hey, the 2012 Olympics Games should have gone to New York City!
Architecture in London, what a beauctiful combination! I hope I will be able to go this city any time soon….
The Gherkin is so cool. I know that a lot of people don’t like the way that it looks, but it is such an innovative piece of green architecture.
How about a face lift for the Royal family?
It’s great to see how the gap between the old and new is being bridge. I personaly prefer the old. Chose as you please.
I love the elongated structure of the apartment. Love the breathtaking view. It’s amazing and comfort. I love the soft hue colors, and admire the white and other mild colors. Provide a complete sophisticated and mature style.