The complete overhaul and extension of this 1980’s office building in the heart of the City of London presents some unique opportunities. It also saved 8,600 tonnes of Carbon and achieved BREEAM Outstanding.

The solution devised by EPR Architects was to rake back each of the upper floors, creating a ziggurat of generous terraces. Our design provides every occupant with a view of nature. The challenge was to create this landscape which maximised biodiversity and yet still allows maximum flexibility for social events, outdoor meeting, and the chance to enjoy the outstanding views over the city.

We have designed a series of bespoke planters which incorporate seating, lighting and power for events. These are deep enough to support significant new tree planting, and the articulated shapes create plenty of niches and spaces with privacy for group meeting or solo relaxation, always with the feeling of being amongst the trees and planting. The seats appear to grow organically from the planter edging, and have each been individually modelled in 3d software, before being sent to be cut from solid pieces of hardwood. Paving the terraces has been an exercise in patience and precision. Because of the many complex radii and non-parallel arrangements of façade and parapet, thousands of porcelain tiles have been individually water-jet cut to a precise pattern.

Precision pays dividends, and the completed project provides a healthy and fulfilling place to work and enjoy, and a unique slice of nature in the city.