Norman Robert Foster, Baron Foster of Thames Bank, is a renowned British architect and designer known for his contributions to high-tech architecture. Born in 1935, his Foster + Partners practice is the largest in the UK and supports multidisciplinary research among the next generation.
1. TORRE BANKIA The Torre Cepsa, formerly Torre Bankia, is a Madrid skyscraper in the Cuatro Torres Business Area. Standing at 248.3 m with 45 floors, it’s the second tallest in the complex and Spain’s second tallest.
2. THE GHERKIN The Swiss Re Building, popularly known as the Gherkin, was designed by Foster + Associates and combines post-modernism, neo-futurism, and high-tech architecture.Built in December 2003, it is known for its energy-efficient features, including six shafts that allow for natural ventilation.
3. THE REICHSTAG BUILDING In preparation for exhibitions, the West Berlin Reichstag underwent modernization in the 1960s. Norman Foster redesigned it as a permanent German parliament building between 1995 and 1999. Since April 19, 1999, the Bundestag has met there under a remarkable glass dome created by Gottfried Böhm.
4. CITY BANK HEADQUARTERS Foster + Partners is constructing CITIC Bank's 100-meter headquarters in Hangzhou, China, inspired by traditional Chinese culture, featuring a V-shaped tower framework and spreading floor plates.
5. MILLAU VIADUCT At 336.4 metres, the finished 2004 Millau Viaduct is the highest bridge in the world. Costing €394 million, it spans the Tarn Gorge in Southern France and was designed by Norman Foster under the direction of engineer Michel Virlogeux. It was inaugurated on December 14, 2004, and has won awards for exceptional engineering.