Why Do London Skyscrapers Look Like That?

Today, AD joins architect Nick Potts in London to explore the city’s unique skyline. From the Gherkin to the Cheesegrater and the Walkie Talkie, these skyscrapers are as iconic for their nicknames as they are for their bold, unusual designs. But what gives London’s skyline its distinctive character? Join Potts as he explores how the UK capital’s historic layout, protected sightlines, and strict planning laws have shaped the city’s tallest buildings and how architects navigate complex zoning rules to create skyscrapers that are both functional and expressive, resulting in one of the most recognizable skylines in the world.