Anyone who has lived in London for more than 30 years will have certainly noticed the dramatic but gradual change to our landscape. Designing for the future? It is apparent the change is affecting our communities and scenic landscape. In some ways we would think those that have been around London for decades, would appreciate and be lucky enough to witness the dramatic changes in some areas.
Standing Tall | The Victorian Era
Victorian style buildings were so large in size, to allow for accommodation of such large members of family. As it was well known back then, families came in their dozens and were proud of it too! These building were known for their high ceilings, large rooms and just as large windows. They were built strong and sturdy!
The Short Of It | The Sixties
Some of the buildings in the sixties were scaled down in size, compared to the four or five story of a Victorian building. The sweet sixties buildings were to accommodate a regular family size of a party of five (does anyone remember that show?) The buildings of the sixties allowed for a beautiful skyline. Whether it was blue or grey, come rain or shine. You could be rested assured to see it the skyline.
Living It Large | The Seventies
The seventies was the sure increase for even taller buildings, known to us in the UK as the Tower Block (to some the dreaded Tower blocks) After the second world war these buildings were on the increase, as the Germans had bombed a lot of our 19th century homes that were left crumbling. These style buildings were seen as futuristic and great for housing even more communities. Although very different from the Victorian style. A lot smaller in size with smaller rooms, windows and lower ceilings. The Tower Blocks quickly became unpopular with the increase of crime in and around these Tower Blocks.
Over Crowded | Present day
Welcome to the present day in the United Kingdom, specifically London. I have always loved London for its old style architecture with its strong stone buildings. As of late there have been a major increase of births and immigration. This has put a mega strain on our landscapes and environment. More and more housing is being designed and built up everywhere. Everywhere you look there seems to be builders upon builders, working hard at creating more bigger, bolder and in some cases more colourful homes. Don’t get me wrong the architecture of most of the buildings are beautiful. It is just that there seems to be no consideration for the other style of buildings. Therefore creating a clash of designs. In my opinion London is looking rather miss matched, too busy, over crowded and it is really starting to show in the skyline. The design of our future is far from over and forever changing the face of London.
The O2, formally known as the Millennium Dome
Center building – Canary Wharf
Dainty Homes
Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park
old mixed with new
New Tower Blocks
What are your thoughts, on the future of design on our London buildings? Let me know in the comments below : )
Natoya
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This blog post is a part of Design Blogger Competition organised by CGTrader.