London’s Gherkin Tower
Construction of the Gherkin was commissioned by Swiss Re, a reinsurance company. The 41 story skyscraper was built in 2004 after a modern glass and steel design by the architectural firm of Foster and Partners.
The Gherkin
Originally known as the Swiss Re Building, it was later renamed to its street address 30 St. Mary Axe after Swiss Re sold the building in 2007. Even before its construction was complete Londoners dubbed the building the 'Gherkin' for its distinctive shape, and it is still known by that name.
