Lecture on the Bloomberg Building in the City of London

Introduction

• Aim: Design a building that fits into the City of London, respectful of history and character.
• Architect: Lord Norman Foster
  • Known for blending modern architecture with historical contexts.

Design Considerations

• Value and Appropriateness:
  • Importance of blending with historic environment.
  • Use of historical architectural devices.
• Structure & Materials:
  • Stone structure with bronze elements.
  • Sculpted bronze fins for solar protection.
• Facade Design:
  • Use of real materials such as bronze and sandstone.
  • Samples and full-size models for material testing.

Stone and Facade Details

• English Sandstone:
  • Largest stone project in the UK in over 100 years.
  • Only a small percentage of quarried blocks meet project specifications.
• Precast Units:
  • Combination of steel and concrete with sandstone.
  • Matching of color and grain by eye.
• Curved Stones:
  • Complex stones cut in Italy using high-spec machinery.
  • Emphasis on hand-finished craftsmanship.

Bronze and Glass Facade Features

• Bronze Elements:
  • Crafted in Japan with unique coloring techniques.
  • Highly skilled craftsmanship required.
• Serrated Glass:
  • Largest grooved glass pieces globally, made in China.
  • Extensive testing for impact resistance and weather durability.

Innovative Components

• Glass Lift:
  • Designed in Helsinki, Finland.
  • Integrates bespoke electronic components.
  • Challenges in hiding mechanical elements within glass units.

Environmental Considerations

• Bird Deterrents:
  • Angled features designed to be less attractive to birds.
  • Consultation with ornithologist Nigel Clarke to minimize bird corrosion issues.

Conclusion

• Combination of handcrafted materials, innovative design, and environmental considerations.
• Achieved a unique facade that complements the historic London environment.