HB Reavis has unveiled new plans for One Waterloo, a transformational vision to sustainably redevelop Elizabeth House into a vibrant mixed-use destination and connected gateway to Waterloo Station and the South Bank Local residents, businesses and visitors are invited to shape the proposals, as HB Reavis launches public consultation on
Global real estate adviser CBRE has been appointed by Castlebrooke to bring Prime4Eight to market, a four-unit industrial and logistics development, totalling 377,200 sq ft, which is strategically positioned along Scotland’s key M8 corridor between Glasgow and Edinburgh. Prime4Eight has planning consent for four Grade A industrial and logistics units,
Property management and finance platform Lendlord has published Q3 2026 buy-to-let ownership data, showing that 45.1% of UK BTL ownership is company-held, compared with 54.9% held privately. Among landlords with 20 or more properties, company ownership rises to 57.6%. The figures, drawn from Lendlord’s Q3 2026 UK BTL Market Report, show that company ownership is already the
A £67.2 million financing package has been agreed to support the delivery of Harlech Court, a major 30-storey build-to-rent development currently under construction in Cardiff. Close Brothers Property Finance has provided the facility to Draycott Group for the 340-home residential scheme, which is set to become one of the tallest
Public sector procurement specialist SCAPE has published the Tender Notice for its next generation SCAPE Construction Works and Services Framework, covering England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The framework offers a fully compliant, actively managed procurement route for public sector organisations, maximising value through the creation of long-term strategic partnerships. The
A 101,805 sq ft BREEAM Excellent industrial and logistics facility delivered for Hillwood UK at Martland Park, Wigan. Glencar has completed works at Martland Park in Wigan, achieving practical completion on a 101,805 sq ft industrial and logistics unit delivered for Hillwood UK. The high-specification facility has been developed to
Vistry has secured £350 million in government grant funding to accelerate the delivery of social and affordable housing across England outside London. The housebuilder has been named among 33 strategic partners selected by Homes England to support the Government’s new £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme (SAHP), which will
Harlequin Watford, Hertfordshire’s leading retail and leisure destination, owned and operated by SGS UK Retail, has announced that Superdrug has committed to a significant upsize that will expand the space by over a third. The upsize follows consistently strong performance at the centre and is a significant vote of confidence
Railpen, manager of the around £36bn railways pension scheme in the UK, has secured planning consent for Phase 2 of High Wycombe X alongside two major pre-lets, delivering another significant milestone in the continued growth of its market-leading X industrial and logistics portfolio. High Wycombe X, the 360,000 sq ft site which is located in the heart
The Royal Automobile Club’s historic Pall Mall clubhouse has undergone an extensive restoration, returning one of London’s most distinguished Edwardian façades to its former glory. Completed in 1911, the Grade II* listed clubhouse was designed by Charles Mewès and Arthur Davis, the architects responsible for The Ritz hotels in both
HB Reavis has unveiled new plans for One Waterloo, a transformational vision to sustainably redevelop Elizabeth House into a vibrant mixed-use destination and connected gateway to Waterloo Station and the South Bank Local residents, businesses and visitors are invited to shape the proposals, as HB Reavis launches public consultation on the scheme. Building on HB Reavis’ long-standing commitment to revitalise the site, the mixed-use masterplan for One Waterloo reflects a broader shift in the UK and London to prioritise sustainable development that minimises demolition and saves carbon through construction and operation. Encompassing a range of uses – including new hotels, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), built-to-rent (BTR) homes, retail and leisure, workspace and public realm – this scheme will create a multitude of jobs for local people. The proposals aim to catalyse Waterloo’s economy while delivering immediate and ongoing local benefits. As a landmark retrofit scheme, One Waterloo seeks to achieve net zero carbon in construction and operation. Compared to a demolition and new build approach, the new retrofit led One Waterloo proposals target embodied carbon cuts of 75%, to responsibly deliver major change. HB Reavis’ retrofit strategy for One Waterloo will mean an expected delivery date three and a half years following planning permission. PLP Architecture, the global architecture and urban design practice behind the proposals, has reimagined the existing building to reduce engineering complexity and minimise disruption next to the UK’s second-busiest train station and above Waterloo Station’s critical transport infrastructure that supports 70 million journeys annually. The proposals include: This campus will establish a complementary mix of hotel guests, students, residents, workers and visitors, creating a vibrant and resilient 24/7 destination. Three new pedestrian routes to connect Waterloo Station are central to the plans. Currently, Elizabeth House acts as a barrier between the station and the surrounding area. The proposals would open up the site, introduce a public square and provide new pedestrian routes between York Road, The Curve, Leake Street, the South Bank and Waterloo Station. Revitalising the station frontage, the proposals also feature new shops, restaurants and leisure spaces to create an active streetscape and a welcoming destination to stimulate activity throughout the day and evening. Once complete, One Waterloo is expected to support over 1,000 new jobs in restaurants, hotels, offices, startups, among other sectors. It would secure long-term investment in a strategically important part of Lambeth. Steven Skinner, CEO at HB Reavis Developments, said: “Waterloo is one of the most exciting places in central London. We have spent a long time looking closely at the site and what this part of Lambeth really needs. We are excited to share our ideas for a mixed-use scheme, including new homes, workspaces, shops and places for people to come together that will make this a genuine destination. Our starting point has been the environment and community. By retaining the existing structure rather than demolishing it, we’ll save 100,000 tonnes of carbon, with less noise and disruption for local residents and businesses as a result. But this only works in partnership with the people who already live and work here. That means leaving them better off through long-term jobs supported by the new workspaces, shops and hospitality, and real opportunities for local businesses. Which is why we’re encouraging people to come along to our consultation events and help shape what One Waterloo becomes.” Public consultation is an opportunity for people to learn more about the new proposals and share their views on the future of this important site. Feedback received will help shape the One Waterloo masterplan prior to submission of a planning application. Local residents, businesses, neighbours and visitors are invited to view the proposals, meet the project team and provide their feedback at the following consultation drop-in sessions: More information can be found on the consultation website: https://onewaterlooconsultation.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Global real estate adviser CBRE has been appointed by Castlebrooke to bring Prime4Eight to market, a four-unit industrial and logistics development, totalling 377,200 sq ft, which is strategically positioned along Scotland’s key M8 corridor between Glasgow and Edinburgh. Prime4Eight has planning consent for four Grade A industrial and logistics units, ranging in size from 77,200 sq ft to 150,300 sq ft, providing occupiers with a rare opportunity to secure high-quality warehouse accommodation in one of the country’s most constrained logistics markets. Located in the heart of Scotland’s established logistics region, the development benefits from excellent connectivity, with direct access to the M8 via Junctions 4 and 5, providing strong links across Scotland and to the North of England via the M74 and M6. The surrounding area has become one of Scotland’s most established logistics destinations, with Junction 4 accommodating major occupiers including Aldi, Schuh and GXO across approximately 2.2 million sq ft of warehouse space. Complementing this, the nearby 2 million sq ft Tesco Distribution Centre at Junction 5 further reinforces the strength of the location as a premier distribution hub. Prime4Eight is uniquely positioned to accommodate both large-scale and big-box occupier requirements and represents one of the only opportunities along the M8 corridor capable of delivering modern warehouse space at scale within relatively short timescales. At the time of reporting, there is zero grade A stock under construction above 50,000 sq ft across the Central Belt, therefore there is a clear opportunity for Prime4Eight to meet the potential demand in this size range. The units will be delivered to an institutional-grade specification, providing best-in-class distribution accommodation. The scheme will also incorporate strong ESG credentials, aligning with the evolving sustainability requirements of modern occupiers and investors. The construction of unit 1, circa 77,200 sq ft, is anticipated to start in Q3 2026 and will be available for occupation from Q3 2027. The remaining units will be available for pre-let discussions and further speculative development may commence following the success of phase one. Craig Semple, Director at CBRE, said: “Prime4Eight represents one of the most significant industrial and logistics opportunities currently available in Scotland. Schemes that are capable of accommodating large-scale occupiers, while offering immediate access to the M8 and a best-in-class specification, is extremely rare. “Occupier demand continues to be driven by the need for high-quality, sustainable logistics space in well-connected locations, and Prime4Eight is exceptionally well placed to meet that requirement. With occupation anticipated from next year, and the industrial vacancy rate along the M8 corridor between Glasgow and Edinburgh currently hovering at a record-low of circa 2.5%, we’re looking forward to engaging with occupiers seeking a future-proof solution in one of Scotland’s most established logistics locations.” A spokesperson for Castlebrooke said: “Prime4Eight has been designed to meet the evolving needs of modern logistics occupiers, combining a strategic location with high-quality, sustainable accommodation in one of Scotland’s most established distribution corridors. “Bringing the scheme to market marks an important milestone, and we are pleased to be working with CBRE as we introduce this opportunity to occupiers. We are confident that Prime4Eight will attract significant interest from businesses looking for high-quality logistics space that supports their long-term operational and sustainability ambitions.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Property management and finance platform Lendlord has published Q3 2026 buy-to-let ownership data, showing that 45.1% of UK BTL ownership is company-held, compared with 54.9% held privately. Among landlords with 20 or more properties, company ownership rises to 57.6%. The figures, drawn from Lendlord’s Q3 2026 UK BTL Market Report, show that company ownership is already the majority model among larger portfolios, while smaller landlords remain predominantly private. Key findings from the Q3 2026 data include: · 45.1% of BTL ownership is through a company; 54.9% is held privately. · Among landlords with 1-3 properties, 67.1% of ownership is private. · Among landlords with 20 or more properties, 57.6% of ownership is company-held. · Company ownership first becomes the larger share in the 11-20 property band. · The North East is the most corporate market, at 53.5% company-owned. · Company ownership is also the larger share in Yorkshire & Humberside and Scotland. The data points to a clear split in how the market is structured. Private ownership still dominates among smaller landlords. Once portfolios reach 11 properties or more, company structures become the typical vehicle. The same pattern appears geographically, with company ownership more established in the North East, Yorkshire & Humberside and Scotland. The findings form part of Lendlord’s ongoing work to give brokers, landlords and lenders data-led insight into the UK buy-to-let market. Aviram Shahar, co-founder and CEO of Lendlord, said: “Company ownership is no longer a niche structure used only at the very top of the market. 45.1% of BTL ownership is already sitting in a company, and among larger portfolios it is the majority model at 57.6%. “That split matters. Smaller landlords still tend to hold in their own name. Larger landlords, and more of the North, have already moved into companies. Lendlord is the place for landlords to bring portfolio, mortgage and tax data together, stay on top of compliance and manage that shift with confidence.” More information is available at www.lendlord.io and https://lendlord.io/btl-ownership-insights-q3-2026/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A £67.2 million financing package has been agreed to support the delivery of Harlech Court, a major 30-storey build-to-rent development currently under construction in Cardiff. Close Brothers Property Finance has provided the facility to Draycott Group for the 340-home residential scheme, which is set to become one of the tallest buildings in Wales and make a significant addition to Cardiff’s evolving skyline. Construction is already progressing on site, with the main tower crane now installed. Intelle Construction is leading delivery as main contractor, while Stephenson RC Frames has been appointed as frame contractor. The development represents Draycott Group’s largest project to date and will provide 340 purpose-built rental homes within a high-rise scheme in the Welsh capital. The substantial funding agreement provides further momentum for the construction programme and demonstrates continued investment in Cardiff’s build-to-rent market as demand for professionally managed rental accommodation grows in major regional cities. Phil Hooper, CEO of Close Brothers Property Finance, said: “Harlech Court is exactly the type of scheme our Structured Finance team was set up to back: a landmark development in an excellent central location in a capital city that continues to see strong demand for quality rental stock.” For Draycott Group, Harlech Court builds on more than four decades of involvement in Cardiff’s residential and commercial property markets. Sajid Ghaffar, CEO of Draycott Group, said: “This is the largest scheme that we have delivered to date and it will transform the Cardiff city skyline. “Cardiff is a market we know extremely well, having been active in residential and commercial property development for over 40 years, and Harlech Court builds on that long-standing track record.” The project adds to the growing pipeline of build-to-rent development across the UK’s regional cities, where larger residential schemes are increasingly combining significant institutional and specialist development finance with high-density construction. With the tower crane now in position and the £67.2 million finance facility secured, construction at Harlech Court is set to gather pace as the 30-storey development begins to take its place on the Cardiff skyline. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Public sector procurement specialist SCAPE has published the Tender Notice for its next generation SCAPE Construction Works and Services Framework, covering England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The framework offers a fully compliant, actively managed procurement route for public sector organisations, maximising value through the creation of long-term strategic partnerships. The framework has a total capacity of £8 billion over a four-year period. Fully aligned with the Procurement Act 2023, it is expected to run between 2027 and 2031, with the option of a two-year extension. Following extensive pre-market engagement with public sector bodies, alongside more than 100 organisations from the construction industry, the next generation framework has strategically evolved in response to client and industry feedback and to reflect the changing needs of the public sector. Providing an accelerated route to market, it will support organisations ranging from local authorities and blue light to housing associations and universities to deliver a range of cross-sectoral projects. These include new build, refurbishment, retrofit and long-term programmes of work. The framework’s five lots are designed to deliver on precise client requirements, allowing for the development of enduring strategic partnerships between the public sector and contractors. A competitive selection process will allow clients to ask project-specific questions based on their bespoke needs. To provide greater choice, the framework will appoint three delivery partners per lot in response to market feedback. The five lots are as follows: The re-procurement builds on the strong performance of the current SCAPE Construction Framework, which has supported over 240 completed projects and 100 live projects. The announcement closely follows the procurement of SCAPE’s £8.5 billion standalone Defence and Complex Environments Framework in August 2026, which was launched following the construction framework’s consultation process. The market engagement indicated strong demand for a dedicated solution focused specifically on defence and complex environments. All 11 of SCAPE’s current frameworks have achieved Gold Standard verification, reflecting its commitment to collaborative working practices, robust governance and continuous improvement that leads to consistent, high-quality outcomes. SCAPE framework delivery partners are actively managed, audited and performance monitored against the framework agreement, driving continuous improvement and providing clients greater confidence in project delivery. Craig Murphy, Director of Frameworks at SCAPE, said: “Informed by extensive market engagement with both contractors and public sector organisations, SCAPE’s Construction Works and Services Framework responds to an evolved legislative environment alongside demand for greater choice and flexibility over delivery partners. “Building on the success of our current framework – which has successfully delivered hundreds of often high-profile public sector projects over the last few years – its next generation successor offers no less than five sector-specific lots designed to meet client requirements. Through an actively managed service, the framework aims to deliver exceptional project outcomes across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A 101,805 sq ft BREEAM Excellent industrial and logistics facility delivered for Hillwood UK at Martland Park, Wigan. Glencar has completed works at Martland Park in Wigan, achieving practical completion on a 101,805 sq ft industrial and logistics unit delivered for Hillwood UK. The high-specification facility has been developed to meet the requirements of modern industrial and logistics occupiers, with a strong focus on sustainability, operational efficiency, and long-term performance. The scheme has achieved a BREEAM Excellent rating, reflecting its environmental credentials. The completed development features a 12-metre haunch height, first-floor office accommodation with Cat A fit-out, and a range of sustainability measures including photovoltaic panels, electric vehicle charging points, and cycle facilities. Works also included comprehensive groundworks, attenuation, and drainage infrastructure to support the site. Glencar worked closely with the wider project team throughout delivery, including Goodrich Consulting LLP, UMC Architects, Baynham Meikle, and Cundall, alongside its extended supply chain. The completed building provides high-quality, future-ready industrial space, supporting employment and inward investment in the Wigan area and setting a new benchmark for sustainable industrial and logistics development at Martland Park. This marks Glencar’s second completed project with Hillwood UK, further strengthening our partnership within the industrial and logistics sector. Building on this momentum, Glencar has also recently begun work on a third scheme with Hillwood, Hillwood Park in Luton. Tom Kearsley, North Regional Director at Glencar, commented: “The completion of Martland Park is a strong example of what can be achieved through close collaboration with a committed client and consultant team. We are proud to have delivered a high-quality, sustainable facility for Hillwood UK that meets the demands of modern industrial and logistics occupiers.” Mark Wright, Vice President at Hillwood UK, added: “We are very pleased with the completed building at Martland Park and would like to thank Glencar and the wider project team for delivering a high-quality facility to a strong specification. The development reflects our commitment to providing sustainable, well-designed industrial and logistics space and represents an excellent addition to our portfolio in the North West.” Project Team Client: Hillwood UKConsulting Engineer: Goodrich Consulting LLPArchitect: UMC ArchitectsEngineer: Baynham Meikle Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Vistry has secured £350 million in government grant funding to accelerate the delivery of social and affordable housing across England outside London. The housebuilder has been named among 33 strategic partners selected by Homes England to support the Government’s new £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme (SAHP), which will provide long-term funding for housing delivery over the next decade. The agreement represents a significant funding boost for Vistry’s partnerships-led housing model and will support the delivery of new affordable homes alongside councils, housing associations and other registered providers. Vistry is one of relatively few private-sector housebuilders included among the strategic partners, with the majority of organisations selected for the programme comprising housing associations and local authorities. Collectively, the partnerships announced by Homes England are expected to support the creation of more than 73,000 new homes, providing greater long-term certainty for the affordable housing development pipeline. Vistry has worked with Homes England through successive affordable housing programmes for almost two decades and has established relationships with 29 of the other 32 strategic partners announced alongside the company. Adam Daniels, Chief Executive of Vistry, said: “Vistry has received direct grant funding awards under successive affordable homes programmes for nearly twenty years, and this award reflects our established track record and commitment to delivering much needed affordable homes in collaboration with Homes England and our partner providers. “We are delighted that Homes England has made this significant announcement that will create over 73,000 new homes and provide Vistry, its partners and the wider sector with a much-needed stimulus. “We already operate in all of the Established Mayoral Strategic Authorities and have established relationships with 29 of the 32 other strategic partners announced this morning. We look forward to continuing to work with Councils and Homes England to meet local ambitions to increase housing supply at pace.” The £350 million allocation comes at an important point for Vistry as the group continues to focus its business around partnership-led residential development and affordable housing. The company has recently warned that it expects to report a first-half pre-tax loss of around £30 million following a series of measures designed to strengthen cash generation and reset its balance sheet. Average daily net debt has approached £800 million, while around £50 million of charges are expected from measures including increased sales discounts, accelerated asset disposals and write-downs on lower-margin developments. Vistry has also prioritised faster payments to suppliers as part of the financial reset. Against this backdrop, the new Homes England funding provides greater visibility for Vistry and its partners over future affordable housing delivery. With £350 million allocated through the ten-year programme, the agreement gives Vistry a significant platform to work with local authorities and housing providers on new residential developments, supporting the Government’s wider ambition to increase the supply of social and affordable homes across the country. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Harlequin Watford, Hertfordshire’s leading retail and leisure destination, owned and operated by SGS UK Retail, has announced that Superdrug has committed to a significant upsize that will expand the space by over a third. The upsize follows consistently strong performance at the centre and is a significant vote of confidence in the destination. Due to expand into the adjacent retail space, the new Superdrug store will span 11,503 sq ft, a 37% increase from its previous 8,400 sq ft space. The upsize will grant a wider range of cosmetics, skincare, healthcare, fragrances, and wellness products, enabling the brand to meet the high customer demand at the centre. At the heart of a wide catchment made up of Watford residents, North Londoners, and office workers, Harlequin remains a hub for everyday essentials, and this major investment reflects the prime positioning the centre offers nationally leading retailers. The centre has welcomed £16.7 million worth of tenant enhancement over the last 24 months, including a 154% upsize from Goldsmiths in this same month, showcasing huge momentum for the destination and signalling both the success of existing tenants and the destination’s growing value, as brands continue to reaffirm their position. Robert Jewell, Managing Director of Asset Management at Pradera, commented: “Harlequin is a prime example of active, intelligent leasing done right, where occupiers welcome success and visitors feel understood. Superdrug’s recommitment demonstrates why brands continue to find the centre an attractive prospect worth investing in, and the expanded space will work to serve the needs of the far-reaching catchment.” Clare Jennings, Property Director at Superdrug: “We’re excited to be extending the store in Harlequin Watford. This investment reflects our continued commitment to bricks-and-mortar retail and allows us to bring an enhanced range of health and beauty products and services to local customers. The new store will feature leading brands, fragrance offerings and our Beauty Studio which provides a range of beauty treatments and piercing services. It will also create new jobs, further supporting the local community.” Time Retail and LM are Harlequin’s retail leasing agents, and Metis and LM lead the leisure leasing. Pradera asset manages Harlequin on behalf of SGS UK Retail. Simon Horner at GCW acted on behalf of Superdrug. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Railpen, manager of the around £36bn railways pension scheme in the UK, has secured planning consent for Phase 2 of High Wycombe X alongside two major pre-lets, delivering another significant milestone in the continued growth of its market-leading X industrial and logistics portfolio. High Wycombe X, the 360,000 sq ft site which is located in the heart of Cressex Business Park, has secured planning consent to begin works on Phase 2. The second phase will deliver approximately 145,000 sq ft of high-quality, sustainable industrial and logistics space across five units, building on the success of the first phase, which completed last year, and further strengthening Railpen’s presence in one of the South East’s most sought-after logistics locations. Demonstrating strong occupier demand, Railpen has already secured two significant pre-lets across the development, totalling 73,900 sq ft. Booker, the UK food wholesaler, has committed to 47,300 sq ft, while Activeon, the indoor trampoline operator, will occupy 25,600 sq ft. Both occupiers have signed 20-year leases, reflecting the long-term appeal of the redevelopment and the quality of the space being delivered. The scheme is due to complete in Q2 2027. Developed in partnership with Wrenbridge, High Wycombe X forms part of Railpen’s growing X portfolio, an industry-first branded collection of small and medium-sized industrial and logistics developments that share a consistent set of market leading characters. Each development has been designed to deliver a best-in-class specification, with strong amenities, exceptional sustainability credentials, and spaces that are fit for the evolving needs of occupiers across a plethora of sectors. The portfolio is strategically located around the M25 and other key transport corridors, providing direct access to London and the wider UK, while maintaining close proximity to residential areas and end consumers. Phase 2 continues this approach, targeting BREEAM Excellent certification, EPC A+ ratings and net zero carbon in construction, reinforcing Railpen’s commitment to delivering future-ready industrial developments that meet both occupier demand and ambitious sustainability standards. Alastair Dawson, UK Industrial – Sector Lead at Railpen, commented: “The industrial and logistics sector continues to present a very compelling long-term investment opportunity, one which is underpinned by structural demand driven by e-commerce growth and the continued modernisation of UK supply chains. The demand for high-quality space continues to outstrip supply, and the strong pre-letting interest we’ve secured demonstrates that occupiers increasingly value developments that combine exceptional sustainability credentials, outstanding connectivity, and spaces designed around modern needs. “High Wycombe X is a prime example of our strategy in action – we’re focused on creating high-quality assets that deliver lasting value for both our members and our occupiers, and High Wycombe X is transforming a former industrial estate into a future-ready logistics hub.” Tim McClure, UK Managing Director, Activeon, said: “We’re delighted to be joining High Wycombe X as part of our continued growth. Having been part of the High Wycombe community for over 12 years, this new site represents our long-term commitment to the town and our confidence in its future. High Wycombe X provides the ideal space for our operations, with excellent connectivity, high-quality facilities and strong sustainability credentials that align with our ambitions. Signing this lease reflects our confidence in both the development and the opportunity it presents, and we’re looking forward to continuing to serve families in High Wycombe from our new home.” Max Russell, Associate Director at Wrenbridge, also added: “This is a very exciting time for the High Wycombe market, and an opportune moment to receive planning consent. We’re bringing forward the remaining units on a speculative basis, confident that this level of occupier interest will carry through into this phase and future phases. Delivery of Phase 2 is scheduled for a summer 2027 completion with units ranging from 19,429 to 28,460 sq ft.” Booker and Activeon will join RH Amar, one of the UK’s leading full-service distributors and growth partners for ambient grocery products, within High Wycombe X. The final stage of the development, Phase 3, has planning in for a 120,000 sq ft unit. The space is currently being marketed on a pre-let or build-to-suit basis, providing flexibility to meet the requirements of a range of occupiers. Other assets within Railpen’s X portfolio include Dartford X, Waltham X, and South Mimms X, with the latter due to start construction on site in the coming months. Savills, Adroit Real Estate and Duncan Bailey Kennedy are the joint agents representing High Wycombe X. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Royal Automobile Club’s historic Pall Mall clubhouse has undergone an extensive restoration, returning one of London’s most distinguished Edwardian façades to its former glory. Completed in 1911, the Grade II* listed clubhouse was designed by Charles Mewès and Arthur Davis, the architects responsible for The Ritz hotels in both London and Paris. Stretching 70 metres along Pall Mall, the building is defined by its grand neoclassical portico, columns, balustrades and sculpted pediments. As part of the restoration, DesignPlusLight were commissioned to create a new lighting scheme for the façade. The brief was to reveal the depth and craftsmanship of the architecture, after dark, while remaining sensitive to the building’s heritage. The surrounding area’s restrained night-time lighting provides an opportunity to enhance the building’s presence without overwhelming its setting. Sanjit Bahra, Principal and Founder of DesignPlusLight, said, “We always take the view that one is only a custodian of heritage buildings. Any lighting enhancement must be appropriate to the architectural style and history of the building. We wanted to celebrate the richness of this magnificent building whilst retaining the warmth and welcoming character of a private club.” A carefully considered palette of luminaires from just two manufacturers was used throughout. This helped to meet the restoration programme while maintaining colour consistency across the full length of the façade. Compact LED fittings were specially commissioned in a warm 2400K colour temperature, allowing the newly restored stonework to take on a soft, tungsten-like glow. The lighting design was developed closely around the building’s architecture. Rather than flooding the façade with light, DesignPlusLight took the approach of keeping the illumination contained within its structure, using carefully positioned luminaires to reveal depth, rhythm and detail. Columns are uplit from both sides, modelling their form while drawing attention to the set-back first floor windows. The deeper terrace within the central portico is highlighted with an additional layer of uplighting to the rear wall, giving greater presence to the columns and the principal entrance. Pairs of spotlights cross-light the entablature and its sculptures, whilst linear fittings with glare shields backlight the balustrades at the first-floor and rooftop levels. This creates a visual connection across the entire 70-metre frontage and unifies the individual architectural elements. Planning approval formed an important part of the project. DesignPlusLight prepared nighttime visualisations showing the proposed effects, together with a detailed elevation identifying the location and type of fittings used for each section of the façade. Sketch details also demonstrated how the luminaires would be discreetly integrated into the historic fabric of the building. This helped secure planning approval with confidence. Whilst the scaffolding remained in place, lighting trials were carried out to determine the final treatment of the sculptures across the entablature and pediments. During this stage, the signature of the French sculptor Ferdinand Faivre was discovered, carved discreetly beneath one of the cherubs. It was subsequently gilded in recognition of the importance of these sculptures to the clubhouse’s identity. As the scaffolding was removed, in stages, DesignPlusLight were able to focus and fine-tune the lighting as each section of the restored façade was revealed. The clubhouse’s historic torcheres were also refurbished as part of the project. The warm façade lighting beautifully complements the natural gas flame. This reinforces a welcoming feel at the entrance. In keeping with the building’s listed status and Westminster’s planning requirements, two lighting scenes have been programmed. A brighter, early-evening scene presents the full architectural composition as members and guests arrive. As daylight fades, this transitions to a more subdued late-night setting where the clubhouse takes on a softer residential glow. The completed scheme reveals the scale and magnificence of the restored building, evoking the clubhouse’s original reputation as the “Palace on Pall Mall”. This project also reflects a broader and more important (lighting) design element. Illumination should be selective, allowing shadow and darkness to remain part of the overall composition. Sanjit Bahra continues, “The ability to light a building does not mean that every surface should be illuminated. At the Royal Automobile Club, the visually quieter areas are just as important as the elements we chose to reveal. This balance gives the façade its depth and dignity, while ensuring the lighting feels as though it belongs to, and emanated from, the building rather than having been imposed upon it.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals