The recent completion of the new headquarters building in the Square Mile by Allies and Morrison is a testament to the potential of sustainable architecture in the commercial sector. This project, located at 2 Aldermanbury Square, EC2V 5DX, showcases a meticulous approach to design, sustainability, and public engagement, all while meeting the highest industry standards. The building, with its innovative features and thoughtful integration into the urban fabric, sets a new benchmark for environmentally progressive office spaces in the City of London.
One of the key strengths of this project lies in its ability to balance high-quality workspace with a significant contribution to the public realm. The ground-floor entrance, for instance, features a double-height reception and lobby space, complete with a feature staircase, connecting to basement end-of-trip facilities and a lounge on the first floor. This design not only enhances the user experience but also introduces a new public route, Basinghall Walk, which is adorned with artwork by Brazilian artist Alexandre da Cunha. This public space, linking 2 Aldermanbury Square to its neighbour, 40 Basinghall, is a welcome addition to the area, offering a new ground floor public route, active retail units, and improved accessibility.
The building's exterior is equally impressive, clad in a striped veil of white metal cladding that manages solar shading and light spill without restricting views. This high-gloss finish is designed to reflect the changing colour of the sky, adding a dynamic element to the building's aesthetic. The architects, Allies and Morrison, have also prioritized sustainability, with the project surpassing the 572kgCO2e/m² project target and achieving a carbon footprint below the threshold set by the Net Zero Carbon Building Standard. The use of large-scale circular strategies, including the retention of existing groundworks, material passports, and a commitment to recycled procurement, has significantly reduced embodied carbon.
The design process was grounded in a clear objective: to deliver the highest quality workspace with the lowest possible carbon impact, while maintaining commercial viability for Great Portland Estates (GPE). This evidence-led decision-making process, anchored in carbon and cost appraisals, was critical in aligning sustainability ambitions with commercial outcomes. The resulting scheme doubles the floor area of the original building, with a modest increase in height, respecting protected view corridors and surrounding townscape views. The project-wide carbon budget, established at the outset, informed decisions on structure, envelope, services, landscaping, and public art, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainability.
The environmental performance data is impressive, with the building achieving a BREEAM Outstanding and NABERS 5-star Design for Performance rating. The operational energy demand is minimized through the façade design, which incorporates solid cladding below desk height to reduce solar gain and cooling loads, while maintaining high levels of daylight and occupant comfort. The use of natural materials and finishes, chosen to embody the project's sustainability goals, further enhances the building's environmental performance.
In conclusion, the new headquarters building at 2 Aldermanbury Square is a remarkable example of sustainable architecture and urban design. It demonstrates that a commercial building on a constrained site can deliver high-quality workspace alongside meaningful public realm contributions, while meeting industry-leading sustainability targets. The project's success in balancing modern workspace design with a much-improved public realm sets a new standard for environmentally progressive office spaces in the City of London.
