City Hall, London

At times, it appears that architects make a deliberate effort to ensure that London's visitors recognize the city's deep-rooted history while also acknowledging its existence in the 21st century. City Hall, which overlooks the river, exemplifies this approach, and once you become accustomed to its unconventional design, you'll come to admire the elegance of this futuristic edifice.

The 10-story glass-and-steel office building, which leans to one side, was conceived by Norman Foster in 2002 and emerged as the victor in the competition to determine the best design and location for the new London Assembly headquarters. Standing at a height of 45 meters (150 feet), it occupies a smaller footprint compared to a conventional cubic building of the same volume and incorporates energy-saving features, consuming less than a quarter of the energy of its neighboring structures.

For the very first time, the public had the opportunity to participate in the selection process during the competition, and visitors are encouraged to take a leisurely stroll up the spiral walkway to the second floor to observe activities or visit the café. Regrettably, "London's Living Room" on the 9th floor, offering the finest views of the Thames, is not typically open to the public, except during Open House weekend, which falls on the third weekend of each month. Just outside, The Scoop amphitheater hosts complimentary events, including theater performances, outdoor film screenings, and musical concerts, from June to September.

Tip:
Before departing the area, don't forget to explore Fiona Banner's gleaming black Full Stops, three-dimensional representations styled in various fonts and cast in bronze.