London is building Europe’s tallest residential skyscraper – here’s a first look

Alex Lawrie / Lawrie Cornish

The new tower will feature some of the highest views in London

Construction is under way for a new skyscraper which, at 235 metres (770ft), will be the highest residential skyscraper in western Europe.

Demolition work in Canary Wharf has already begun for the project, which is due for completion in 2020, and apartments are already on sale.

The project is being led by Chinese property developer Greenland Group, who has also invested in skyscraper projects in Los Angeles, Sydney and New York.

The new tower will be neck-and-neck in height with Canary Wharf’s tallest skyscraper, the office building One Canada Square.

Here’s a look at some architects’ images of how the tower will look when it’s complete.

Spire London will be located in London’s Docklands.

The 67-storey high tower will be valued in excess of £800 million, and provide 861 apartments.

It is already being dubbed the ‘Flower Tower’ because of its unusual three-petal theme. Architects Larry Malcic and Christopher Colosimo based their design on an orchid.

The design also took inspiration from Docklands’ nautical history, with the top of the tower forming a ‘bow’ shape like a ship.

Spaces on the top of the building and on the third storey will provide more than 950 metres (10,000 sq. ft.) of private gardens.

The entrance lobby will feature a 20-foot ceiling and a petal-shaped reception desk.

There will also be a spa, gym, and cocktail bar.

The tower will be located in Hertsmere Road, adjacent to Canary Wharf, and directly looks onto 30 acres of water in West India Quay.

Each bedroom will have floor-to-ceiling windows.

Other features include kitchens with breakfast bars, walk-in dressing rooms and private roof terraces.

The apartments will contain curved walls with panoramic views.

The premier and penthouse apartments on floors 56 to 66 will offer the highest residential views in London.

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