“It was a risky building to do at the time, which is why it is great.”
Those were the words of the late Richard Rogers in 2013 (as quoted by Lloyd’s), referring to the iconic inside-out building in London that’s been the Lloyd’s headquarters for three and a half decades. On December 20, the insurance marketplace rang the Lutine Bell during a remembrance service in honour of the beloved architect, who passed away on Saturday at age 88.
In his speech during the ceremony – attendees of which included Rogers’ wife and children, as well as peers from Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners – Lloyd’s chair Bruce Carnegie-Brown stated: “I’m thrilled so many of you could be here at such short notice – with his family, colleagues, and some of us from the Lloyd’s market, who live every day with his creation.
“Though we stand in the middle of an eerily quiet Square Mile today, this building has been at the centre of the action for over three decades – serving many functions since its completion in 1986. A bustling hub for London’s financial district. A beating heart for the Lloyd’s market and wider insurance sector. A brave harbinger for Britain’s position on the world stage.”
Carnegie-Brown – who believes One Lime Street represents transparency, versatility, and fun – said: “We’re very grateful to have made it our home. But most of all, today we’re grateful for the architect who made it possible. Every design carries some trace of its designer – and Richard’s ideas, values, and vision are eminently visible in the building we see today.”
The award-winning property is described as Rogers’ second breakthrough following the Pompidou Centre in France. The uniquely designed Lloyd’s building was granted Grade 1 listed status in 2011.
“One Lime Street continues to be more than just a building; it is a home,” declared the Lloyd’s chair. “Not just for us, but for the 5,000 daily visitors that were coming through its doors prior to the pandemic: brokers, underwriters, history fanatics, schoolchildren, friends, and relatives. We look forward to the return of that buzz, for which the building was so evidently designed. But in the meantime, we thank Richard for his vision and his values.
“He will be remembered as the man who challenged the norm, as the best innovators do; who divided opinion, as the best artists do; and who inspired others, as the best leaders do. And today – as we stand in his iconic space – we pay our respects to the pioneer behind the plans.”
