The Shard Opens to the Public

© Getty Images

Today, six months after the laser light extravaganza that marked the completion of The Shard in London, the controversial glass tower celebrated its official opening to the public. Architecture enthusiasts and residents were welcomed to join the mayor of London 244 meters above the capital on the 72 floor observation deck for the official ribbon cutting.

Designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, the 310 meter needle-point structure is currently the tallest in Western Europe. The two million square meter mixed-use development offers ample office space, restaurants, a five-star shangri-la hotel and residences.

Bas-relief © Renzo Piano Building Workshop

Missed the opening? No worries. The Guardian has shared a 360 degree panorama of The View from The Shard. Click on the image to check it out.

via The Guardian

Learn more about The Shard here on ArchDaily.

via The Guardian

Image gallery

See allShow less
About this author
Cite: Karissa Rosenfield. "The Shard Opens to the Public" 01 Feb 2013. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/327150/the-shard-opens-to-the-public> ISSN 0719-8884

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.