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London isn't shy when it comes to building skyscrapers, but whether you think these sun-blocking buildings are monstrosities or not doesn't really matter as they just keep on coming. The latest to grace the city skyline is Spire London, which will be 771ft (235m), making it the tallest residential block not just in the capital but in Western Europe.
The £800m project is being built on a site near Canary Wharf opposite the Museum of London Docklands. According to the architects, the building 'meets the city’s need for mixed-income housing, providing 861 private and affordable apartments.' But already it has caused controversy with the starting price for an 'affordable' one-bed flat reportedly 'set at £595,000', even if you afford that you might still have to use the poor door while the extra wealthy travel by private lift to their £3m penthouse suites, (waiting time for a lift is 30-35 seconds FYI). But one thing's for sure – those panoramic views over London won't disappoint.
HOK architects said: 'Residents of the 861 flats will be able to paddle a few lengths in the infinity pool on the 35th floor, taking in the view of the City, or pound the treadmill and push weights in the air-conditioned gym. Or book a private movie night to watch King Kong in the darkness of London’s highest cinema, with velvet mohair walls. If that’s too much effort, you can simply order a cocktail at the sky bar.' If watching a private movie in a cinema with velvet mohair walls is too much effort then there's got to be something wrong.
Spire London is the brainchild of China's biggest property developer Greenland Group and is due for completion in 2020.
This is what London would look like if plans for 250 more skyscrapers are approved