Standing at 310m tall, The Shard is Western Europe’s tallest building, stretching up to 95 storeys. Incorporating spaces for retail, office, residential, a public viewing gallery, plus a hotel, The Shard’s innovative design is architecturally a masterpiece.
Requiring a number of pioneering engineering methods such as top-down construction, where foundations are dug while the core is built up – a first for the UK - Arup’s innovative design solutions were crucial for the mechanical, electrical, fire engineering, and public health systems, ensuring the building’s functionality within its complex shape.
The Shard is also a testament to overcoming challenging economic, planning and environmental conditions. During construction, the project overcame sub-zero temperatures, gale force winds and the Thames breaking through the protective dam.
Professional Development
1. How to design, construct and manage a vertical city
2. What are the service features that contribute to is success
3. What is the future for tall buildings in an age of campus style offerings and demand for street activation and local amenity
