Images released yesterday (24 March) ahead of a new round of public consultation show off the practice’s retrofit-led plans for the Thamesside building, including major changes proposed for the section of the building facing Villiers Street.
The existing façade there will be replaced by brick vaults at street level – introducing new shops along the street – with a glass façade above. Improvements are also planned at ground level on Embankment Place and to the bridge above.
Other improvements include to the public experience of surrounding streets while ‘retain[ing] the existing building’s distinctive character and design intent – working with the existing structure rather than replacing it, and responding directly to long‑standing challenges’.
The scheme, first announced in November by London developer Bridgemont, involves modernising office space used by PwC. The accountancy giant has been the Thamesside building’s sole occupier since its completion in 1991, using it as its London headquarters.
Hopkins’ proposals will introduce energy efficiency improvements to the 35-year-old ‘air-rights’ building above the railway tracks of Charing Cross Station, which will ‘ensure the building remains attractive to world-leading occupiers and an improved public experience’, the practice said.
Hopkins has been in discussion with the late architect’s son, Max Farrell, a former partner at Farrells, to ensure continuity of the original design through its ‘retrofit-first’ approach.
Hopkins proposals for 1 Embankment place (March 2026)
The project was announced last year shortly after Terry Farrell’s death in September at the age of 87. Farrell’s other works include the MI6 headquarters in Vauxhall and Alban Gate in the City of London, which tp bennett is to refurbish after securing planning in May last year.
Hopkins co-founder Michael Hopkins and Terry Farrell both featured in the 2014 BBC series The Brits Who Built The Modern World, along with Nicholas Grimshaw, Richard Rogers and Norman Foster. Foster is now the only surviving architect of the five.
Hopkins principal Mike Taylor said: ‘Our detailed designs build on the principles set out last year but now go further in responding to early consultation feedback and in strengthening how the building meets the city around it.
‘We remain committed to evolving Terry Farrell’s original vision with care – enhancing 1 Embankment Place’s relationship with Villiers Street, improving daylight and openness, radically overhauling the sustainability performance and ensuring the building continues to serve commercial occupiers and the public for decades to come.”
Bridgemont principal Mark Wenlock added: ‘Through the detailed proposals, we’ve focused on shaping improvements that reflect what people told us mattered most, including a more inviting Villiers Street, better pedestrian connectivity and a higher‑quality ground‑floor experience. We’re excited about the opportunity to unlock the potential of this unique site while respecting its legacy and reinforcing its role as a key gateway to the West End.’
Max Farrell, founder of the LDN Collective and former Partner at Farrells, added: ‘It’s a privilege to help carry forward my late father’s vision for 1 Embankment Place, preserving the bold spirit of the original design while enhancing it in a way that reflects today’s needs and values.
‘Hopkins and the wider project team have shown care and dedication to shaping proposals that honour this ambition and I’m very supportive of the work so far.’