View from my office: Stephen Cummins

What can you see?

I am fortunate enough to have one of the most inspiring, exciting and thought provoking views in my office. Located on the banks of the river Irwell in central Manchester, I am able to take in a plethora of sights ranging from modern iconic architecture in the form of the Civil Justice building, whilst experiencing the calmness and tranquillity of the river Irwell.

It is this mix of old and new which makes my view special, and is a great example of inner city regeneration blending successfully with historic features of a city.

Sometimes I am lucky enough to witness the sun setting, lighting up the river corridor, providing the perfect backdrop to showing the city in its best light. As darkness descends, the soft lighting provided by the bars and restaurants of the new Spinningfields development reflects spectacularly off the water. This lights up the surrounding area, providing the perfect ambience to go for a leisurely drink after a hard days work!

How far up are you?

I’m located on the fourth floor (top floor) of a standard office building.

What’s on your desk?

Currently I am surrounded by numerous files, contracts and coffee mugs! That provides a fair synopsis of my day to day desk gatherings, along with my mobile phone and my Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders poster… just in case the view from my window does not fill me with inspiration!

What are you working on?

I am currently working on a new aquarium facility in Silvertown Quays, East London. This large scale, landmark project is set to become one of London’s lead tourist attractions, while providing world leading learning and conservation facilities in Marine Wildlife.

What’s your all-time favourite view?

My favourite view must be watching the sun rise from a boat on the Whitsunday Islands, off the East Coast of Australia. Without a gust of wind in the sky, the sea expanded for what seems like an eternity, lying perfectly still like a mill pond. No air or noise pollution, just a gigantic orange ball rising out from behind the sea in total silence. It is not often you get to experience something so beautiful without someone spoiling the moment!