The Shard in London won the "Best Large Project" award at the recent Global Construction Summit organized by Engineering News Record (ENR), a major New York-based publication. The ceremony took place in Manhattan Thursday, June 6.
This is the first year of the "Global Best Projects" awards. It acknowledges the best construction projects, worldwide.
A host of other constructions were honored in various categories. A panel of judges chose the buildings on the basis of various parameters, according to ENR.com.
The Shard building was chosen by the panel as a part of the "Best projects of the year" award. In this category, judges singled out two international projects that excelled in terms of design, innovation, construction quality, overcoming international building challenges and safety.
About "The Shard" Building
The Shard is a 1016 feet tower that completed construction in July 2012 and opened recently in February 2013. It is the tallest building in Western Europe. The tower is funded and managed by the Qatari government. The 72-story building takes up 1.2 million square feet of space. Designed by architect, Renzo Piano, the building was developed by Sellar property Group. The building is a mixed use structure that comprises of offices, restaurants, a spa, an observatory and a few residential luxury apartments as well.
Even though The Shard has become a major landmark of London, its offices are still empty. Since its opening, the place has had some trouble finding tenants. However, companies like Al Jazeera, South Hook LNG Company and Duff & Phelps are some of its potential tenants, reports Daily mail.
While The Shard bagged the "Best Large Project" award, the "Best Small Project" award went to the Schoolhouse in Johannesburg, South Africa, a 6000 square feet early childhood development and teacher training facility developed by student volunteers from Cornell University.
"This project shows us all that beauty doesn't need to be expensive, and challenges aren't always led by very experienced professionals. I am proud of our industry when I see the next generation leading the way," a judge said in a statement.
Find out more about the awards and the other winners, here.