strips of LEDs. The top part of the tower is completely glass. Below this, the tower consists of strips of glass set within pre-cast concrete panels. The pre-cast concrete panels were painted in varying tones of beige after the construction. The reason for this was unknown, however in December 2006 these patches were painted over in a single colour. The final phase of the Orion scheme, is currently under construction. It is being marketed separate to the Orion Building and is named 'Sirius'. As of August 2008, the scaffolding and sheeting covering the façade of the structure are being removed. The construction of Sirius was aided by two tower cranes. The complex will consist of 182 one and two bedroom apartments and in five retail units. It incorporates the Victorian façade of 99 John Bright Street. The scheme is estimated to cost £35 million. Criticism The architecture of the Orion Building has been attacked by critics. It was nominated for the 2007 Carbuncle Cup, and The Times newspaper named it as one of the ugliest new buildings in Britain in August 2007. Views of the Orion Building See also List of tallest buildings and structures in Birmingham References Skyscrapers in Birmingham, West Midlands Residential buildings completed in 2007 Residential skyscrapers in England