This dynamic form replaces an urban eyesore with a bold and prominent landmark. Part building, part sculpture, the scheme sits on a derelict island site next to a busy intersection of the M4, adding a landmark feature to London’s western gateway. The building is an ingenious hybrid of offices, advertising and way finding and aims to set a new standard for architectural ambition throughout west London and stimulate further urban regeneration.
The striking upper form houses flexible, high specification offices which are raised off the ground to reduce exposure to the traffic noise and pollution and allow views out above the motorway. This form is wrapped in a metallic, semi-transparent ‘shroud’ which performs the dual role of an external solar shade and a screen for high resolution LED displays showing advertising and lighting.
These innovative mesh screens form an integral part of the design and exploit the exceptional visibility of the site, which can be viewed from all angles without restriction.Eight fully glazed office floors sit just beneath this layer of mesh, allowing views out and natural light into the interior. This facade forms a contrast to the metallic shroud and lower elements and ensures a calm backdrop to the building’s main form. The shroud also shelters a rooftop garden and an external terrace which provides a relaxing, plant-filled amenity space.
The more intricate and complex lower building comprises intertwined forms clad in stainless steel perforated panels which are orientated in different directions, reflecting the dynamic sense of movement and activity of the traffic. The building’s entrance and flexible retail space is enhanced by lush landscaping and planting which is deliberately integrated into the fabric of the lower elevations, creating the impression of a building emerging out of a natural context.
