Hopkins Architects has been selected to modernize and retrofit the iconic 1 Embankment Place in London, originally designed by the late Sir Terry Farrell. London developer Bridgemont announced the comprehensive renovation scheme on November 10, which will focus on modernizing office space currently occupied by accounting giant PwC. The building has served as PwC's London headquarters since its completion in 1991, with the firm being its sole occupant for over three decades.
The ambitious retrofit project aims to make the building significantly more energy efficient while introducing public realm improvements designed to better connect surrounding streets with Charing Cross station. Hopkins Architects has released early concept visuals showing their vision for the public realm enhancements, with these designs now under public consultation until December 1. The firm emphasized that their emerging retrofit scheme would seek to honor and preserve the architectural legacy of the iconic building while adapting it to meet the evolving needs of both the public and modern-day occupiers.
In developing the renovation plans, Hopkins Architects has been working closely with Max Farrell, son of the late architect and former partner at Farrells, to ensure continuity of the original design through their retrofit-first approach. This collaboration reflects the firm's commitment to preserving Terry Farrell's architectural vision while updating the structure for contemporary use. The news comes just weeks after Sir Terry Farrell's death in September at age 87, marking the end of an era for one of Britain's most influential architects.
Sir Terry Farrell's architectural legacy extends far beyond 1 Embankment Place, including other notable works such as the MI6 headquarters in Vauxhall and Alban Gate in the City of London. Notably, tp bennett is set to refurbish Alban Gate after securing planning permission in May of last year. Farrell was featured alongside Hopkins co-founder Michael Hopkins in the 2014 BBC series "The Brits Who Built The Modern World," which also showcased Nicholas Grimshaw, Richard Rogers, and Norman Foster. Following Farrell's recent passing, Norman Foster remains the only surviving architect of this influential group of five.
Hopkins principal Mike Taylor expressed the significance of the project, stating: "It is a privilege to be entrusted with the evolution of Embankment Place – a building that holds a distinctive place in London's architectural landscape. Our sensitive approach is guided by deep respect for Sir Terry Farrell's original vision, and we are committed to ensuring the building continues to serve its community and occupiers with relevance, resilience and dignity for generations to come."
Bridgemont principal Mark Wenlock emphasized the unique nature of the development opportunity, adding: "This is an exciting opportunity to enhance a truly unique site in central London. We're focused on delivering improvements that respond to the needs of the public and occupiers alike, while celebrating the building's legacy and its role as a key gateway to the West End."
The project comes amid reports from May suggesting that PwC was considering relocating from both Embankment Place and its second location at Foster + Partners' More London offices to new premises. However, PwC's contract for 1 Embankment Place runs until 2030, and it is understood that the company could potentially return to the building following the completion of the redevelopment work.
The development timeline includes a second phase of consultation scheduled for next spring, followed by the submission of a planning application in summer 2026. This careful approach reflects the sensitive nature of modernizing such an architecturally significant building while ensuring all stakeholder needs are properly addressed throughout the process.
