Skanska Construction Group is combining traditional construction with the latest technology in a £20 million project in London’s Baker Street.
Behind a new traditionally-styled façade covering a 200ft frontage on one of the capital’s most famous streets, a state-of-the-art air-conditioned office and retail building complete with atrium and structural glass features will be constructed.
The five-storey, 100,000 square feet building with basement and sub-basement includes new stone and brick masonry facades along Baker Street and the adjoining George Street and Kendall Place.
Like their predecessors from the early 1900s, the facades will be built with hardwood double-hung sash windows, solid load-bearing brickwork, lime mortar and Portland stone features. Internally the latest building technology will be used including structural glass floors and balustrades, see-through wall-climber lifts and internal double glazing. The building will be highly energy efficient incorporating a sophisticated BMS system controlling the air conditioning systems, internal lighting and window blinds.
The project also includes a fully fitted office entrance and high quality office accommodation from the first to fourth floors. At roof level a structural glass terrace overlooks the atrium three floors below. A sub-basement will include space for parking and plant while restaurants and retail units on the basement and ground levels will be completed to shell and core standard.
Work started on site in early February and the contract is due to be handed over to the owner, Loftus Family Property, in October 2002.