Somehow, Richard Rogers managed to persuade one of the most conservative organizations in the world to commission one of the most extravagant pieces of architecture. An insurance underwriters housed in a giant stainless steel clad oil refinery that became a hallmark of London’s financial renaissance during the 80’s. It still looks more modern that the more recent icon, the rather simplistic ‘gherkin’ and the elevator rides, while not the highest or fastest in the world, are a majestic piece of architectural drama.