Yearn to Wander

Swiss Re Headquarters, Foster and Partners, 2004, affectionately known as The Gherkin

London's built environment is world renowned: Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul's Cathedral et al. But they have lots of company now, especially in the City.

About twenty years ago the City of London put together a plan to invite global corporations to build in the square mile area the Romans built, what is called The City. The result has been nothing short of spectacular. During every visit new, exciting buildings have gone up.

The New London Architecture (NLA) organization now compares the City's built environment with New York and Chicago. The Swiss Re Headquarters, affectionately known as the 'Gherkin,' is still my favorite newer building, but more and more new buildings appeal also. Just like Chicago, learning a little about architects' designs and intentions has helped me gain an appreciation for many late twentieth century buildings, and twenty-first century buildings, too. Here are a few that were new to me on this trip, and a couple old favorites.