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The traditional City of London, which represents only a small part of the metropolis, has been the staging ground for an influx of imaginative and often wacky skyscrapers. Projects like 30 St Mary Axe, colloquially known as The Gherkin, and the 'Cheesegrater' Leadenhall Building have altered the central business district. A number of other proposals will continue this transformation, including The Scalpel, a Kohn Pedersen Fox-designed highrise currently under construction.
Built for W.R. Berkley Corporation, the 39-storey building will climb 192 metres above London, culminating with a peaked roof that extends the building's overall distinctive shape. Wrapped in a reflective glazing, tenants will enjoy modern workplaces with a plentiful supply of natural light and city views.
Visually, The Scalpel will help fill a newly created gap in the skyline following the completion of 20 Fenchurch, the walkie-talkie-shaped building that stands a few blocks south of the main building cluster. By leaning away from the Leadenhall Building, the skyscraper also preserves the view towards St Paul's Cathedral.
With completion expected in 2017, construction has been ramping up at the site. The pointed floor plates are taking shape below the concrete core, which is ascending quickly thanks to the self-climbing formwork system installed. Painted numbers mark the corresponding levels, and a photo snapped by Forum contributor Daveography indicates the core has progressed to the 21st floor, approximately halfway towards the tower's full height.
Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.
