Lansdowne House

Lansdowne House, a new ‘Palazzo’, will transform the southern end of Berkeley Square. The site was formally the garden to the original Lansdowne House (1768) and has only been built-upon twice. Firstly, with an elegant art deco inspired residential building (1935) and, secondly, with the existing constrained commercial building (1988) also referred to as Lansdowne House. The existing configuration - multiple cores and low floor to ceiling heights - results in an inflexible layout, unable to service the demands of a 21st century office. In contrast, the redeveloped Lansdowne House will have generous floor plates embracing a 'long life, loose fit' principle that is flexible and robust enough to last for generations. The primary structure is shaped for efficiency, celebrated, and becomes the architecture of the building, inside and out, with the use of self-finished materials, minimising consumption and reducing waste. A structurally independent core sits at the heart of the plan. The stairs, lifts and services contained within can be easily reinvented and refurbished over time due to being separated from the main structure. The proposal also seeks to restore the ‘garden and pavilion’ relationship enjoyed by the original Lansdowne House by enhancing its connection with Berkeley Square. The exterior is inspired by its context, including the original building, through its rational and classical order. Oriel windows reflect the rich heritage of Mayfair, which in combination with the celebrated primary frame, provide depth and quality. The redevelopment will include outdoor space at every level and a roof top terrace with greening and biodiversity. Loggia balconies are provided in pairs on every floor overlooking the square. Sustainability is key to the design. Enhanced thermal mass passively cools from above with fresh air supplied at low level. The building focuses on longevity and inherent flexibility and is capable of responding to future unanticipated challenges.