The Leadenhall Building, like its neighbour 30 St Mary Axe, is best known by its nickname.  In the case of the Leadenhall Building that is "The Cheese Grater" and for an obvious reason. 




The tapering design is the architect's solution to the requirement that it should not impede the view of St. Paul's especially from Fleet Street. 


Although floor plates decrease in size as you reach the higher floors, the effective use of space has been enhanced by placing all the services such as on-floor plant, lifts, and toilets in a detached north-facing tower. 

At ground level the building occupies the whole site but offers a sun-lit, seven-storey high, public space containing shops, a bar, restaurant, and an exhibition space.  The architects describe this area as, " ... a rare oasis within the dense urban character of the City of London".