The Shard

Despite being a relatively recent addition to London’s skyline, The Shard has quickly become one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. With construction beginning in March 2009, the 95-storey tower opened to the public on the 1st of February 2013. The Shard was designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano and was developed by the Sellar Property Group and the State of Qatar.

The Shard is known to be home to an array of different enterprises. The building accommodates 32 companies, a number of restaurants and a highly popular viewing gallery. Each restaurant offers the highest standard of fine dining and they provide unparalleled views across the city too. Situated just a short step away from the historic Borough Market, The Shard is a welcome addition to the local area and welcomes throngs of tourists all through the year.

• The Shard stands 309.6 metres (1,016 ft) high.
• The Shard is the tallest building in the United Kingdom, the 5th tallest building in Europe and the 96th tallest building in the world.
• While The Shard is owned by both the Sellar Property Group and the State of Qatar, the latter actually own 95% of the enterprise after securing an initial 80% stake in 2008.
• In July 2016 six women climbed to the top of the building’s exterior and staged a protest against Shell’s intention to drill for oil in the Arctic.
• The architectural style of the Shard is thought to be Neo-futurism.
• The total construction cost is thought to have surpassed £430 million.
• The Shard is home to Europe’s highest swimming pool. It is part of the Shangri-La hotel and can be found on the 52nd floor.
• During construction, a fox was found roaming the 72nd floor. The fox was rescued and quickly brought back down to ground level, but not before the animal was nicknamed Romeo by the staff.