My Love-Hate Relationship with London’s Skyline

Buildings with nicknames like the Gherkin and the Shard changed the face of London. I used to hate them.

London’s postmodern architecture includes 20 Fenchurch St. (the Walkie Talkie) on the left, the Leadenhall Building or Cheesegrater (center), and 30 St. Mary or the Gherkin (right). Photo by Frans Ruiter on Unsplash.

The London skyline has changed dramatically over the last 30 years. One Canada Square (1991) and other Canary Wharf skyscrapers; City Hall (2002); 30 St. Mary Axe, better known as the Gherkin (2003); the Shard…