Danish design studio BIG has been hired to work on a new 10-story office design for developer Landsec, taking over a space that was originally built in 1989 along the Thames in London. It has a central core of 10 stories and then steps down towards the Thames with the listed Anchor pub right next door.
The stepped design will also feature a roof terrace that has space for the offices on every floor to easily access outdoor space. BIG explains in a design statement that "The proposed development is arranged, in massing terms, as a series of 'jumping' blocks of differing sizes that opens up the ground plane to create a series of new, enhanced publicly accessible urban spaces."
Stepped Office Blocky Buildings
BIG Develops a New 10-Storey Office in London for Landsec
Trend Themes
1. Stepped Office Buildings - The trend of stepped office building designs is on the rise, offering opportunities for architects and engineers to create unique, visually appealing structures that maximize outdoor space and accessibility.
2. Central Core Design - Building design featuring a central core as a structural element is becoming a popular trend, providing opportunities for construction professionals to innovate by incorporating unique materials, layouts, and features.
3. Office Space Outdoor Accessibility - The trend toward design that emphasizes outdoor space accessibility for office employees creates opportunities for urban planners, developers, and landscapers to create green zones that improve employee productivity, health, and well-being.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architecture is one industry that can seize these opportunities by embracing design functionality and aesthetics that consider environmental sustainability and innovative solutions for maximizing interior and exterior office spaces.
2. Engineering - Building engineers are well-positioned to enhance stepped office blocky buildings by using advanced materials and construction techniques to ensure structural integrity, energy-efficiency, and safety requirements.
3. Urban Planning - For urban planners, stepped office blocky buildings provide a new canvas for creating pedestrian-friendly public spaces while preserving access to waterfront and urban communities, as well as expanding access to outdoor recreation and community events.