British architecture has ranged from a combination of eclectic architectural styles to 21st-century contemporary Roman designs. With its unique architectural styles, the UK has always played a leading role in international architectural history. Ashburn the rankings released in 2017, the UK is also home to three of the most prestigious architectural universities in the world like London and Cambridge University, Manchester school of architecture, and University College. Students interested in pursuing architectural studies in the UK will have to look for student accommodation in London.
London is famous for its 19th-century Victorian architectural style. Victorian architectural style refers to the architectural style used during the reign of Queen Victoria. The name Victorian reflects the French and British custom of naming their architectural style after their reigning monarch. Here are a few of the famous architectural landmarks as well as their architects in London.
Saint Paul’s Cathedral designed by Christopher Wren
In British history, Sir Christopher Wren has been referred to as one of history’s greatest architects. He is known for designing the famous Saint Paul’s cathedral. It took a period of over 30 years to complete this beautiful landmark. Wren has described St. paul’s as his greatest work. Not only was Wren an architect, but he was also an astronomer, physicist as well as fell amongst the founding Royal Society members. He was also involved in the repair work of St. Paul’s after the 1666 fire.
The Shard by Renzo Piano
Renzo piano, the Genoese architect, has designed only one building for London. But, this building has left its mark. It is the Shard: the tallest tower in London, measuring 309.6 meters. Its elegant and tapering silhouette stands as a testament to the vision of a person who did not like skyscrapers. The piano has gained an international reputation for its excellent considerable designs, which include the Whitney Museum in New York, and finally, the Centre Pompidou in Paris, to name a few. Where ever your student accommodation London is, you can use the bus network to reach here easily.
Houses of Parliament by Charles Barry
The houses of parliament’s history can be traced all the way back to the middle age period. But, in the year 1834, most of the buildings were destroyed by a fire. Sir Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin won a competition two years later. The competition was about who would rebuild the Westminster palace. They did it in a gothic splendor. The building was completed in 1870 and is standing till today.
The Gherkin by Norman foster
Norman Foster was otherwise referred to as the Baron foster of themes bank. He is one of England’s most prolific architects. He has been known to handle many of the recognizable contemporary buildings of London, including the Gherkin. He was originally a local of Stockport, but he had a keen interest in design and engineering. Foster not only designed the Gherkin, but he also designed the Wembley Stadium, the vast ceiling of the British Museum, the Millennium Bridge, and the Gherkin’s smaller lop-sided relation London City hall. Most student accommodation London has access to bus and tube networks which can be used to access this beautiful site.
National Theatre by Denys Lasdun
Lasdun was a prominent figure in Britain’s modern architecture. He is known for his brutalist creations. His most notable creation is the National Theatre. Most often, Lasdun’s designs were viewed as controversial. The national theater could not escape this infliction either. The public opinion was polarized by the concrete exterior and imposing blockish form.
Regent Street by John Nash Georgian architect
John Nash was a Georgian architect. He was primarily responsible for the designing of modern London buildings like Buckingham Palace. He was born in 1752 in London and remained in London for most of his life. Nash had a 50-year career in which he worked to transform the central London streets, including Saint James Park, Piccadilly Circus as well as Regent street’s signature curve. He is also responsible for designing the Marble Arch. The Marble Arch was originally supposed to be the gate to Buckingham Palace. But, it became the entrance to the great exhibition of 1851 and is now an entrance to Hyde Park.
Sir John Soane’s museum by Sir John Soane
John Soane was a professor at Royal Academy. His most famous work is the John Soane museum. It was originally designed as an Aladdin cave of architectural salvage and antiquities. Now it has been made open to the public for free.
Any student who is going to London to pursue his or her academic career should not miss visiting the abovementioned sites. London is full of history which is meant to be enjoyed by young minds. Wherever your student accommodation London is located, there are a variety of tube networks available for you to visit any part of the city.
