ArcelorMittal Orbit

This is called the ArcelorMittal Orbit and in case you are not aware, it is a newly constructed observation tower for the upcoming London Olympics. This 115-metre-tall structure is meant to be an icon for the Games and something unique that will make the world remember the capital of England as host.

Although it does look special, negative opinions about the ArcelorMittal Orbit have been everywhere since it was unveiled. Even one of its two designers, Anish Kapoor admitted that the tower was "awkward". Some say that it has the potential to rival France's Eiffel Tower while others reckon that it is just pointless and will end up as a white elephant.

As for me, my first impression of this 19 million pounds project is that it resembles a rollercoaster that emphasizes on vertical movements. I thought Olympic Park, the location of ArcelorMittal Orbit, was an amusement park. I also believe that having some blue, together with the red, would make it look more British.

Furthermore, this steel sculpture reminds me of something familiar in Singapore. Most people would notice it when they are in an MRT that passes by Boon Lay station. It is erm, a very tall clock with red railings in Jurong Central Park which is just across the MRT station.

The future of the ArcelorMittal Orbit tower looks uncertain. It can either end up as a modern version of the infamous Skylon tower or the London Eye, a London icon. With its complicated and messy look plus lack of public involvement, I doubt it would be the latter.