One Leadenhall, a tower in the heart of London, faces unique engineering challenges and design complexities.
- Multiplex diligently replaced bearing pads to ensure structural stability against movement.
- A private terrace at the 29th floor of the building is underway, offering panoramic views.
- The building features a state-of-the-art unitised glass and aluminium facade, enhancing its modern aesthetic.
- Innovative use of internal climbing tower cranes marked a significant part of the construction process.
One Leadenhall is a remarkable development set against the historical backdrop of London’s Leadenhall Market. The project replaces the former headquarters of the Royal Sun Alliance Insurance Group with a modern skyscraper that integrates seamlessly with its traditional surroundings. This blend of old and new architecture presents significant construction challenges, requiring careful planning and execution.
Crucial to the project’s success, Multiplex undertook the essential task of replacing and reinstating bearing pads. These components are vital for absorbing building movement, ensuring that the sensitive surrounding structures, including the historic market, remain undisturbed. This intricate work highlights the project’s commitment to preserving the integrity of London’s architectural heritage.
At the 29th floor, a private terrace is under construction, providing spectacular views over the city, including a vista towards St Paul’s Cathedral. The design integrates modern amenities and aesthetic values while complementing the city’s skyline. This development will add a unique feature to One Leadenhall, enhancing its appeal and functionality.
The facade of the building employs an advanced unitised glass and aluminium system. This facade not only elevates the tower’s modern look but also adheres to sustainability standards. The use of glass reinforced concrete at lower levels transitions into a visually striking modern glass tower, reflecting the building’s dual architectural influence.
A breakthrough in construction technique at One Leadenhall is the implementation of internal climbing tower cranes. These cranes, located within lift shafts, climb the structure, allowing for efficient and space-saving construction solutions. This innovative approach minimises disruption in a constricted urban space and exemplifies engineering ingenuity.
Project director Andrew Feighery commented on the complexity of the foundation works, involving a semi-top-down excavation method. This method facilitated a quicker construction of the two-storey basement by using part of the structure to support itself during excavation, showcasing advanced engineering methods employed in the project.
Despite high winds and site constraints, the construction team at Multiplex managed to stay on schedule through precise coordination of crane and lift operations. This involved synchronised ‘jumps’ of the core, cranes, and lifts, ensuring that the structure progressed without delay, which Janet Paul described as a critical and orchestrated feat.
Furthermore, unique challenges arose from the site’s location near major roads and landmarks, necessitating just-in-time deliveries and complex logistics to prevent disruption. This strategic planning ensured that the ambitious construction schedule was maintained, underscoring the team’s expertise in handling the intricacies of urban construction.
One Leadenhall exemplifies engineering innovation and architectural harmony within a densely historic urban environment.
