The Tate Modern Architecture is an iconic piece of London’s skyline, located in the Bankside area of the city. The former Bankside Power Station, designed by Giles Gilbert Scott, was converted into an art gallery in 2000, and has since become a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
History
The building was originally designed in the early 1900s as a power station, but was decommissioned in 1981 due to the increased use of natural gas and other forms of electricity generation. The site was then purchased by the Tate Gallery in 1998, and the conversion to an art gallery began. It took two years and £134 million to transform the building into the Tate Modern, and the gallery opened in 2000.
Architecture
The Tate Modern is an example of industrial-style architecture, and is designed to reflect the power station it once was. The building is constructed of red brick and steel, with a large turbine hall in the centre. The building also has a number of large windows, which let in natural light and provide views of the surrounding area. The exterior of the building is also adorned with a number of sculptures, which were added as part of the conversion process.
Features
The Tate Modern has a number of features that make it stand out from other art galleries. The most notable of these is the Turbine Hall, which is a large, open space that has been used to host a number of exhibitions and events. The building also has a number of other spaces, such as the Tanks, which are used for performances, screenings and installations. There are also several restaurants and cafes located within the building, as well as a bookshop and a gift shop.
Collections
The Tate Modern houses a number of collections, including British art from the 16th century onwards, international modern and contemporary art, and works from a number of other countries. The gallery also has a number of rotating exhibitions, which focus on specific themes or artists.
Conclusion
The Tate Modern is an iconic piece of London’s skyline, and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. The building is an example of industrial-style architecture, and houses a number of collections and exhibitions. The Tate Modern is a must-see for anyone visiting London.
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