The top 30 floors, culminating at a public viewing gallery between levels 69 and 72, will be constructed using a post tensioned slab construction.

Renzo Piano, the project's architect, considers the slender, spire-like tower a positive addition to the London skyline. The sophisticated use of glazing with expressive facades of angled panes is intended to reflect light and the changing patterns of the sky, so that the form of the building will change according to the weather and seasons.

On completion the Shard will house offices for Transport for London, a hotel and luxury apartments, all with exclusive views over the capital.

The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) has recognised Byrne Brothers’ innovative construction methodology at The Shard in London with The Building Award at The London Civil Engineering Awards 2010.

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