Full project details
Rising 224-metres into the London skyline, the Leadenhall Building was constructed in London, reflecting the planning requirement to respect the view of St Paul’s Cathedral and is situated opposite the distinctive Lloyd’s of London Headquarters. Laing O’Rourke was principal contractor and responsible for the construction of the structural frame, envelope, shell and core, the fit out to specified areas, mechanical and electrical systems (M&E) and plant.
DESIGN AND ENGINEERING
A unique, angular steel and glass spire, rising 224-metres high with spectacular views over London. The offices are formed of clear, rectangular floorplates, which diminish in size towards the apex. An alternative to a central core structure, the design comprises of a steel-braced perimeter tube; enclosing the floorplates for wind stability. A separate tower houses a glass lift shaft, service risers, plant and facilities. The tower's base is a public realm; with trees, retail units, restaurants and exhibition space – creating an urban oasis. During the design stage, Laing O’Rourke digitally engineered a model to interrogate the design to a high level of detail in conjunction with the client and design teams. This provided our team with improved understanding of the ambitious structure and built in flexibility to adjust the permanent works design. By incorporating digital engineering so early in the design process, we were able to plan deliveries to site on a ‘just in time’ basis, which was incredibly beneficial in this city-centre location, where we were limited on space and time.
OFF-SITE MANUFACTURING
The Laing O’Rourke team took a unique approach to the construction of the Leadenhall Building with 85% of the building manufactured off-site. By using modern methods of construction and a one team approach with Laing O’Rourke’s Centre of Excellence for Modern Construction (formerly EIP), the team was able to maintain high productivity levels on a compact, central London site and hugely reduce the chance of logistical error.