Urban Redevelopment Design Influences: Does historic architecture matter - Essay Example

The basis of development of these two cities lies in the attempt to transform a low-income area into a new urban centre. The architectural influences on these designs are not prominent and most of the architectural works are based on modern architectural styles similar to American metropolis with skyscrapers and extensive use of steel and glass structures with nautical architectural influences. (Young). Canary Wharf may be differentiated from Brindleyplace in regard to the criticisms received about the model.

Both the developments were initially directed towards improving the value and expansion of economic outcome. Canary Warf, now considered a shopping destination has long been criticized for failing social regeneration in its surroundings while Brindleyplace has been considered as the model of urban renaissance. (Yang). Both Canary Wharf and Brindleyplace are located in the poorest regions of London, surrounded by areas of low income. The architectural aspect has played a rather important role in transforming these regions.

It is with the urban design that the areas have seen such rapid changes, enabling them to become urban city centers. The social developments of these areas are dependant on the architectural outlay. When seen in the light of architecture, we notice that the two cities have different background of spatial planning and development framework, although they have a similar spatial and functional location at the urban level. (Yang). Canary Wharf is located in the Isle of Dogs, which is the site of the once busy West India Docks.

The buildings of Canary Wharf are seen to be some of the tallest buildings of the United Kingdom, most of them being skyscrapers ranging from ten to fifty floors. The buildings are seen to be of modernized architectural style, mostly using concrete, steel and glass in its construction. The tallest building of the United Kingdom, One Canada Square is located