Andy Rodker's photos with the keyword: Torre Picasso

Once the tallest building in Spain (between 1988 and 2007, when the four towers were nearing completion). I'm fond of it. I probably took more classes here than in any one other building in my teaching career in Madrid.

I was intrigued by the white hemispheres, most of which seem to be incubating in their little yellow protective boxes (quite cute, really!). But what will they be upon hatching, I wonder?

I know the white tower (Torre Picasso) well, having given 100s of classes there over the years, but I know nothing about the building in the foreground except that I like it! CORRECTION! I looked in Wikipedia and found out that it is called Castellana 77, and was a novelty in its day. Built between 1973 and 1977 by architect Manuel Aymerich Amadiós, its facade is 100% glass and it incorporated these curving solar panels making it the first building fully self-sufficient in energy in Madrid. It was considered 'ultra-modern' at its inception. I think it still looks very modern!

Until yesterday I gave 4 Business English classes a week at the tall white tower. Now nothing until further notice - and the same at my other in - company classes all around Madrid. No classes, no pay. A problem to say the least. I suggested remote classes by Skype for Business, Zoom, even WhatsApp but the answer was 'no'. I suspect they are very scared about the financial impact and are trimming their sails accordingly. Business English classes are the first to be cancelled in such times.

In the heart of the business centre (or it was 20-30 years ago)!

Azca, Madrid. This temporary ice-rink had yet to open, I think they were putting the finishing touches to it it as I passed. I had just come from taking a class at Torre Picasso behind, resplendent in green for the season!

A back street in Tetuán, Madrid. Torre Picasso lit in green. All the yellow wheelie-bins lining the pavement show that it is plastic waste collection night.

Azca Business Centre, Madrid, seen from an office in the Torre Picasso just after dawn. (Classes start early in my profession!)

For 20 years (1988 - 2008) this was the tallest building in Spain. I have taught many students here over the years: Deloittes, Management Solutions and others. I like the design of the tower. One of my architecture students can tell me all about its design! (I mean Spanish students of English who are architects!) Sight and sound: www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSicpZAxN-c

I posted a shot of the tower a few days ago but without it's bottom. Here it is! www.ipernity.com/doc/2247598/46598638

Another tall building I teach at. Between 1988 and 1996 this was the tallest building in Spain. The bottom part is here: www.ipernity.com/doc/2247598/46650990