The Shard, an iconic and instantly recognisable landmark dominating the London skyline, is a magnificent 72-storey skyscraper located in the vibrant Southwark area of London. Frequently referred to as the "Shard of Glass" due to its distinctive, fragmented glass facade that reflects the city's ever-changing light, it has also been known historically as Shard London Bridge and London Bridge Tower. This architectural marvel forms a central part of the broader Shard Quarter development, which integrates various commercial and public spaces around London Bridge Station.

Designed by the visionary Italian architect Renzo Piano, celebrated globally for his innovative and high-profile projects such as the Centre Pompidou in Paris and Kansai International Airport in Japan, The Shard embodies his concept of a "vertical city." Standing at an impressive height of 309.6 metres (1,016 feet), The Shard proudly holds the title of the tallest building in the United Kingdom. Furthermore, it ranks as the seventh-tallest building in Europe, a testament to its significant stature on the continent. Beyond just buildings, it is also recognised as the second-tallest free-standing structure in the United Kingdom, surpassed only by the concrete mast of the Emley Moor transmitting station, a vital broadcasting facility in West Yorkshire.

The site where The Shard now stands was formerly occupied by Southwark Towers, a 24-storey office block constructed in 1975. The ambitious project to replace it began with construction work commencing in March 2009. Demonstrating remarkable progress, the topping out ceremony, marking the completion of its structural frame, took place on 30 March 2012. The grand inauguration followed swiftly on 5 July 2012, with practical completion of the tower achieved in November 2012. A major draw for both tourists and locals, the tower's privately operated observation deck, universally known as "The View from The Shard," officially opened its doors to the public on 1 February 2013, offering unparalleled panoramic vistas of London.

The distinctive glass-clad pyramidal tower houses 72 habitable floors, each serving a unique purpose within this multi-functional vertical city. These floors are home to a diverse array of functions, including premium office spaces, world-class restaurants (such as Aqua Shard, Oblix, and Hutong), a five-star hotel (the Shangri-La Hotel, which occupies floors 34-52), and exclusive residential apartments. The ultimate highlight for visitors is the viewing gallery and open-air observation deck situated on the 72nd floor, positioned at a breathtaking height of 244 metres (801 ft), providing an immersive 360-degree perspective of the capital. The design incorporates thousands of panes of special low-iron glass, ensuring maximum light penetration and minimal glare, contributing to its luminous and ethereal appearance.

The development of The Shard was spearheaded by Sellar Property Group, acting on behalf of LBQ Ltd. Its ownership structure reflects a significant international investment, with The Shard being jointly owned by Sellar Property, holding a 5% stake, and the State of Qatar, which possesses a substantial 95% share. This significant Qatari investment underscores global confidence in London's status as a leading financial and cultural hub. The day-to-day management and operational oversight of The Shard are expertly handled by Real Estate Management (UK) Limited, on behalf of its esteemed owners.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Shard

What is The Shard primarily used for?

The Shard is a multi-use skyscraper, often described as a "vertical city." It houses premium office spaces, world-class restaurants, a luxurious five-star hotel (the Shangri-La Hotel), exclusive residential apartments, and a public observation deck called "The View from The Shard."

Who designed The Shard?

The Shard was designed by the renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano, who is also known for his work on the Centre Pompidou in Paris and Kansai International Airport in Japan.

How tall is The Shard and where does it rank in terms of height?

The Shard stands at 309.6 metres (1,016 feet) high. It is the tallest building in the United Kingdom and ranks as the seventh-tallest building in Europe. It is also the second-tallest free-standing structure in the UK, after the Emley Moor transmitting station.

When was The Shard completed and opened to the public?

Construction of The Shard began in March 2009. It was topped out in March 2012 and officially inaugurated on 5 July 2012. The public observation deck, The View from The Shard, opened on 1 February 2013.

Who owns The Shard?

The Shard is jointly owned by Sellar Property Group (5%) and the State of Qatar (95%). It is managed by Real Estate Management (UK) Limited.

What can visitors experience at The View from The Shard?

Located on the 72nd floor at 244 metres (801 ft), The View from The Shard offers unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of London, interactive displays, and a unique open-air observation deck, providing a memorable perspective of the city's landmarks.