Did you know that in 1971, the UN’s Spence Halls boasted one of the world’s largest glass panels, spanning three storeys and 1,000 meters squared?

Less known and visited than the neighbouring ‘Bar Serpent,’ the second- and third-floor mezzanines on the eastern facade of the E building were named after Sir Basil Spence, one of the building’s five architects.

Basked here in the early morning winter sun, the balcony areas are often used for catered receptions or temporary exhibitions, as we can tell from the balloon freely drifting on the ceiling.