The Shard

::Image via Inhabitat

The Shard is a new iconic building for London by Renzo Piano. It is due for completion in 2012 and will become the tallest building in western Europe and redefine London's skyline.

From Inhabitat: "The 72-storey building in the London Bridge Quarter will contain premium office space, a world-class hotel, luxury residences, a spa, restaurants & cafes, retail space and a 15-storey public viewing gallery. On the ground level, public piazza, restaurants and cafes will be open to the public with places to rest and changing art installations. Access to public transportation via bus line, train and underground will be directly on site. Previously at that location was the 1970’s Southwark Tower building on Bridge Street, which has already been demolished to begin construction on the new tower."

::Image via Inhabitat