Canaletto Tower, UK



Architect
UNStudio
Date Built
Completion 2011
Location
257 City Road, London EC1V 1AD
Description
The Canaletto Tower's website describes itself as an architectural masterpiece created by the internationally lauded UNStudio.  They add that it, "... does more than propose an eyecatching and contemporary living space both inside and out. The 31-storey Canaletto succeeds in drawing in and reflecting the best of its environment through innovative design and attention to every detail. The architecture and offering set a new standard for future residential developments in London."




The interesting and unusual design is explained by the architect, "... The building facade creates a modelled elevation in which clusters of adjacent floors are grouped together. Using both textured and smooth materials contrasts with the expected contemporariness of a typical high-rise metal construction and lends the facade a residential 'twist'. Sustainability benefits are achieved by the surface modelling that creates opportunities for shading, balancing good internal daylight and views with reduced heat gains."  The building is 31 storeys high and was designed to provide 190 residential units, a spa, swimming pool, gym, cinema, residents lounge, restaurant, cafe, amenity shop and a rooftop terrace.