The recent completion of the new headquarters building in the Square Mile by Allies and Morrison is a testament to the power of innovative architecture and sustainable design. This project, which replaces the outdated City Place House, showcases how a modern office building can not only meet the demands of a thriving business environment but also contribute significantly to the public realm and the environment. Let's delve into the details and explore the insights this project offers.
A Vision for a Sustainable Future
The architects at Allies and Morrison had a clear vision: to create a commercial building that would not only deliver high-quality workspace but also set a new benchmark for sustainability. This project, located in the heart of the City of London, was an opportunity to demonstrate that a constrained urban site could be transformed into a vibrant, eco-friendly hub. The team's approach was meticulous, considering every aspect from the initial design to the final construction, with a strong focus on reducing embodied carbon and operational energy demand.
One of the key strategies employed was the retention and reuse of existing groundworks. By avoiding excavation and new pile foundations, the project significantly reduced the embodied carbon associated with construction. The steel frame of the old building was deconstructed and reused, providing almost 80% of the steel frame for another Great Portland Estates project. This not only minimized waste but also demonstrated a commitment to circular economy principles.
Balancing Viability and Sustainability
The project faced the challenge of balancing viability with the sensitive nature of the site, which is adjacent to St Paul's Cathedral and the Guildhall. The architects had to ensure that the new building would not only meet the needs of Clifford Chance, the tenant, but also contribute positively to the urban fabric. The solution was a design that doubled the floor area of the original building while respecting the protected view corridors and surrounding townscape views.
A project-wide carbon budget was established at the outset, guiding decisions on structure, envelope, services, landscaping, and public art. This holistic approach ensured that every aspect of the project was considered in the context of sustainability. The result is a building that surpasses the Net Zero Carbon Building Standard, achieving a carbon footprint of 570 kgCO2e/m² GIA upfront and 985 kgCO2e/m² GIA lifecycle embodied carbon.
Enhancing the Public Realm
The new building is not just a showcase of sustainable design; it also makes a significant contribution to the public realm. The creation of Basinghall Walk, a new public route between 2 Aldermanbury Square and 40 Basinghall, is a prime example of this. The route is enhanced by artwork by Brazilian artist Alexandre da Cunha, adding a touch of cultural flair to the space.
The project also includes new paved streets, public gardens, and active retail units, improving accessibility and public amenity. These enhancements create a vibrant, engaging public space that encourages interaction and community use. The architects' attention to detail in designing the ground-floor entrance, with a double-height reception and feature staircase, further enhances the building's connection to the surrounding area.
Operational Performance and Energy Efficiency
The building's operational performance is just as impressive as its environmental credentials. The façade design incorporates solid cladding below desk height to reduce solar gain and cooling loads, improving energy efficiency while maintaining high levels of daylight and occupant comfort. The veil, designed to a carefully calibrated depth of 400mm, provides the necessary shading, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment.
The project also achieved BREEAM Outstanding and NABERS 5-star Design for Performance ratings, solidifying its position as one of the most environmentally progressive office buildings in the City of London. The use of natural materials and finishes, adopted by Clifford Chance's fit-out designers, further enhances the building's aesthetic appeal and sustainability goals.
A Thoughtful Takeaway
The completion of the new headquarters building in the Square Mile is a remarkable achievement, demonstrating that sustainable design and commercial viability can go hand in hand. The project's success lies in its holistic approach, considering every aspect from the initial design to the final construction, with a strong focus on reducing embodied carbon and operational energy demand. It sets a new benchmark for the industry, showing that a constrained urban site can be transformed into a vibrant, eco-friendly hub that contributes positively to the public realm and the environment.
In my opinion, this project is a shining example of how architecture can be a force for positive change. It inspires us to think more creatively about the built environment, pushing the boundaries of what is possible while respecting the needs of the community and the planet. As we look to the future, it is projects like this that will shape a more sustainable and resilient world.
