The architectural world mourns the loss of Richard Rogers, a pioneer of the “high-tech” movement, who passed away aged 88. Rogers’ influence is indelibly etched onto skylines across the globe, most notably through iconic structures like the Centre Pompidou in Paris and the Lloyd’s building in London. News of his death on , prompted widespread tributes recognizing his revolutionary approach to design and his lasting impact on urban landscapes.
The Lloyd’s building, completed in 1986, stands as a prime example of Rogers’ signature style. Opened as the very first high-tech building in London, its radical design – featuring exposed pipes, ducts and glass elevators on the exterior – initially drew mixed reactions. However, it has since become widely celebrated as an architectural icon. The building, a Grade I listed structure, was born from a strategic vision for the evolution of Lloyd’s of London, the world’s leading insurance market, rather than a conventional architectural proposal, highlighting the client’s focus on long-term operational needs.
Rogers’ approach, often described as “inside-out” architecture, challenged conventional building norms. He first gained international recognition with the Centre Pompidou in Paris, designed in collaboration with Renzo Piano. Like the Lloyd’s building, the Pompidou Centre boldly displays its structural and mechanical systems on the exterior, creating open and flexible interior spaces. This aesthetic, a hallmark of the high-tech movement, prioritized functionality and adaptability.
The roots of this architectural philosophy can be traced back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, with Rogers’ work alongside Norman Foster, Su Brumwell, and Wendy Cheesman as part of Team 4. Their early projects, such as the Reliance Controls factory in Swindon, UK (), showcased the visible structure that would become a defining characteristic of high-tech architecture. This emphasis on exposing the building’s “inner workings” was a deliberate attempt to create honest and functional designs.
Beyond the Lloyd’s building and the Centre Pompidou, Rogers’ portfolio includes numerous other groundbreaking projects. He was involved in the design of 30 St Mary Axe (‘The Gherkin’), The Leadenhall Building (‘The Cheese Grater’), 20 Fenchurch Street (‘The Walkie-talkie’), The Shard, and the Millennium Dome, all of which have significantly shaped the London skyline. His influence extended beyond the UK, with notable projects like the HSBC building in Hong Kong (), designed by his close friend and fellow high-tech pioneer, Sir Norman Foster.
The Lloyd’s building itself cost £75 million to construct and covers an area of 55,000 square meters, with construction spanning from to . Richard Ward, former Chief Executive of Lloyd’s of London, remarked that the building has “really stood the test of time just like the market that it sits within,” underscoring its enduring relevance and adaptability.
Rogers’ designs weren’t merely aesthetic choices. they were driven by a desire to create buildings that could adapt to changing needs. The Lloyd’s building, in particular, was conceived as a space that could accommodate the dynamic nature of the insurance market. This focus on flexibility and resilience is a key aspect of his architectural legacy.
The impact of Rogers’ work extends beyond the physical structures he created. He inspired a generation of architects to embrace innovation and challenge conventional design principles. His commitment to high-tech architecture, with its emphasis on functionality, transparency, and adaptability, continues to influence contemporary architectural practice. His designs prompted debate and discussion, pushing the boundaries of what was considered possible in architecture.
Reece Davey, V&A East’s resident architecture expert, has explored these iconic buildings, including ascending glass elevators at the Lloyd’s Building and climbing the roof of the O2, to understand the principles that define ‘high tech’ architecture. The Lloyd’s building, along with other structures like The Gherkin and The Shard, represent a significant chapter in London’s architectural history.
Richard Rogers’ passing marks the end of an era in architecture. His buildings stand as testaments to his vision, innovation, and unwavering commitment to creating spaces that are both functional and inspiring. His legacy will continue to shape the built environment for generations to come, reminding us of the power of architecture to transform cities and enhance the human experience.
