The Sky-High Ambitions of One Undershaft
A New Icon for London’s Cityscape
As the City of London continues to evolve, a new skyscraper is set to join the ranks of its tallest and most iconic buildings. One Undershaft, designed by Eric Parry Architects, is undergoing a significant redesign. Upon completion, it will stand at an impressive 309.6 metres, matching the height of the renowned Shard across the Thames.
A New Height for a New Era
Initially approved in 2016, the original design for One Undershaft envisioned a 305-metre tall, 73-storey tower with a distinctive cross-bracing pattern, affectionately referred to as ‘The Trellis’. However, in response to post-pandemic market demands and evolving user needs, the architects have made substantial updates to the design.
The revised design includes an additional floor, bringing the total to 74 storeys, and a height adjustment to 309.6 metres Above Ordnance Datum (AOD) – the same height as the Shard.
Design Evolution and Sustainability
The updated design of One Undershaft focuses on more than just height. It incorporates multiple innovative features aimed at enhancing sustainability and urban greening. The building will now include a stepped form with two outdoor, planted terraces, which will significantly contribute to the greening of the city.
The once-distinctive cross bracing on the exterior facades has been removed, replaced by a streamlined and modern aesthetic. At ground level, the entrance has also been reimagined with the addition of a cantilevered canopy, designed to improve the overall user experience.
Public Access and Community Engagement
One Undershaft is designed not only as an office building but also as a space that actively engages with the community. Public access to various amenities has been thoughtfully integrated into the design.
The building will feature 160,000 square metres of office space, a restaurant, and cultural spaces situated on the 10th floor. Additionally, a two-storey viewing gallery, offering stunning 360-degree views across the city, will undoubtedly be a major attraction.
These upper floors will also host educational galleries curated by the Museum of London, ensuring public access and fostering cultural and educational enrichment. One Undershaft is more than a skyscraper – it is a space designed to facilitate community engagement and shared experiences.
Engineering and Construction Challenges
Constructing a building of this magnitude in the heart of London is no small task. One Undershaft faces a host of engineering and construction challenges, particularly in light of the city’s Civil Aviation Authority height restrictions. These regulations limit building heights to a maximum of 309.6 metres AOD, which One Undershaft carefully adheres to.
The construction will rely on advanced engineering techniques, similar to those employed in the creation of the Shard. A central concrete core will serve as the structural backbone, capped with a tapering steel frame and extensive glass.
Its external structure will consist of four distinct blocks, supported by massive weathering steel tridents at the base. These tridents, with bases measuring 1.5m x 1.5m, will be transported and built onsite in sections to minimise traffic disruption.
Integration into London’s Skyline
One Undershaft finds its place between the Cheesegrater, designed by RSHP, and the Gherkin, envisioned by Foster + Partners. Together, these buildings will form part of the dynamic cluster of iconic skyscrapers that mark the City of London.
This new addition to the skyline will blend seamlessly with London’s rich architectural heritage. The city has long been a balancing act of old and new design, where low-level buildings from the past coexist with high-rise contemporary structures.
Conclusion
One Undershaft signifies a bold step forward for London’s architecture and urban development. Its commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and innovative design makes it a worthy addition to the City of London’s iconic skyline.
As a contribution to the city’s economic and cultural framework, the building reflects the ever-evolving nature of the capital. London’s ability to embrace change whilst honouring its heritage is exemplified in projects like this.
Eric Parry, founder of Eric Parry Architects, summed it up perfectly: “The revised proposals will enable us to deliver a more sustainable building with enhanced urban greening.”
This vision resonates deeply with the ethos of a modern cosmopolitan city like London, where history and innovation are in constant dialogue. One Undershaft promises to stand as both a physical and symbolic testament to the city’s sky-high ambitions.
