London is set to welcome a new architectural marvel with the submission of revised plans for what will become the second-tallest building in Western Europe. The proposed 74-storey tower at 1 Undershaft, nestled in the City of London's skyline near iconic structures like the Gherkin and the Cheesegrater, is a bold step into the future of urban architecture.
Initially approved in 2019 for a 289-metre, 73-storey cuboid structure featuring an external cross-bracing design, the new plans take a different approach. The project, led by development manager Stanhope and designed by Eric Parry Architects, now envisions an 11-storey podium crowned by three elegant glazed volumes, separated by outdoor amenity spaces. This innovative design, backed by Singaporean developer Aroland Holdings, elevates the building's height to 294 metres, making it the tallest in the City of London's eastern cluster and second only to The Shard, which stands at 310 metres.
The revised design substantially increases the available space, offering 160,000 square metres for offices and an additional 20,000 square metres for other uses, including public realms. The new plan's aesthetic deviates from the original, replacing the cross-bracing with a striking grid-like glazed facade accentuated by horizontal lines.
This ambitious project also entails the demolition of the 1960s-built 28-storey Aviva Tower, known for its unique suspended floor structure. The demolition process, necessitating a bottom-to-top approach, underscores the meticulous planning and consideration of modern engineering techniques.
The rationale behind the redesign reflects a forward-thinking attitude, adapting to the post-pandemic world's evolving needs and the dynamic market demands. The developers aim to enhance workplace and public well-being by integrating outdoor spaces throughout the building. The plan includes a captivating public realm experience at ground level and an elevated public podium garden at the 11th level, complemented by new food and flexible cultural spaces.
The tower's upper section maintains the consented volume and tapered profile, featuring a public viewing gallery and dedicated education spaces curated by the London Museum. These spaces promise to offer breathtaking views and enriching experiences to visitors and locals alike.
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To learn more about how Find A Start can contribute to groundbreaking projects like the redesigned 1 Undershaft tower, visit our website at www.findastart.co.uk.