Stretching skyward, 20 Fenchurch Street hosts London’s highest public garden. The Sky Garden is more than just a garden. It’s a vibrant social space with 360-degree views of London’s iconic skyline.
Here at the Sky Garden, you experience London from a spectacular viewpoint. Lush greenery meets exquisite landscaping. Observation decks and an open-air terrace await.
But what makes this garden so special? Let’s dive into its unique story. Access to the Sky Garden is free. However, visits must be booked in advance. You can book up to three weeks ahead.
The Sky Garden was designed by Gillespies. This award-winning landscape architecture practice is renowned. They chose drought-resistant Mediterranean and South African plants. These plants flourish all year round in full color.
Look around. You will spot the African Lily. Admire the Red Hot Poker. Marvel at the Bird of Paradise. Fragrant herbs like French Lavender fill the air.
The Sky Garden sits within 20 Fenchurch Street. Rafael Viñoly designed this building in 2004. His distinctive design incorporates expansive sheets of glass. The building grows larger as your eyes travel upwards.
However, this unique design wasn’t without its critics. The building has been nicknamed the Walkie-Talkie due to its shape. Some even called it the Walkie-Scorchie because of sunlight reflecting off the building. For a time, it acted as a concave mirror. It focused light onto the streets below. This caused some damage.
Before this skyscraper, a 91-meter building stood here. It had 25 stories. Land Securities built it in 1968. Property speculation led to its demolition to make way for something bigger.
Originally, the new tower was planned to be nearly 200 meters tall. Concerns arose about its visual impact. St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London were a concern. The design was scaled down.
Even with the height reduction, concerns persisted. A public inquiry ruled in the developer’s favor in 2007. In 2015, it won the Carbuncle Cup. This award is for the worst new building in the UK.
The Sky Garden was promised as a public park. This helped the developers gain approval. However, it has faced criticism. Some say it doesn’t meet pre-construction expectations. Others find the access restrictions limiting.
Despite the criticisms, the Sky Garden offers incredible views. It stands outside the main cluster of skyscrapers. This gives it staggering views across the river and towards central London.
It is worth noting that the horticultural charity Thrive has partnered with H Properties. Together, they raise awareness about using plants and nature to restore health. Thrive supports many people in London. They use social therapeutic horticulture. Trained therapists use plants and gardens to improve health.
So, as you wander through the Sky Garden, take in the views. Appreciate the plants. Remember the story of this unique space. It’s a garden in the sky. It is open to everyone.