Our proposals for 72 Upper Ground will bring public use to a closed-off, derelict site on London’s South Bank, combining state-of-the-art workspace with restaurants, gardens, and a new cultural centre for production and performance. With its dynamic mix of uses and extensive, permeable public realm, this new destination will drive much-needed investment pivotal to the post-pandemic recovery of Lambeth and the South Bank.
At the development’s heart is the London Studios, a 40,000ft² centre for grassroots artists and independent cultural producers. This creative hub will nurture local talent in an inclusive space by providing affordable studios and performance venues designed to showcase the next generation of Lambeth’s arts community. The aim is to rebalance the loss of creative employment in the area following the departure of ITV, the site’s former tenant, and increase diversity on the South Bank, giving underrepresented groups a platform to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the world-renowned established cultural venues and giving them exposure to international audiences.
Our design comprises a 6-storey podium supporting two office buildings that share a generous rooftop garden. The south office building steps to 26 storeys, while the riverfront office building is 13 storeys, crowned by a public restaurant and terrace with beautiful views along the Thames. The layered, sculptural form maximises the opportunity for outdoor terraces throughout the development and echoes the distinctive, modernist architecture of this iconic area.
The building will be all-electric, with solar panels, natural ventilation, and an innovative double-skin facade to reduce overheating from solar gain. Designed to achieve BREEAM ‘Outstanding’, the scheme targets net zero carbon in use, with all materials chosen to minimise embodied carbon.
Internally, the building will deliver next-generation sustainable workspace designed to WELL Platinum standards, promoting wellbeing and collaboration in a post-COVID context with better light, more fresh air, opening windows throughout and balconies at every level, plus roof terraces for outdoor working.
To complete the transformation, we’ve dedicated 40% of the site area at street level to provide 2 beautifully landscaped garden squares with 31 new trees, and pedestrian routes linking Upper Ground and the Queen’s Walk to welcome visitors and reconnect with the local community.
