Maybe it’s because I’m focused on what’s happening around me, or perhaps it’s just familiarity, but I find it too easy to walk through London, or any city, without looking upwards. On a recent trip to the City, I realised that I had walked along the historic streets amidst the towering structures, without noticing some substantial new changes to the skyline of the Square Mile.
Take 40 Leadenhall Street, for example - my destination that day. It towers 34 storeys and totals 900,000 sq ft, providing around 820,000 sq ft of business space in the traditional style of a Manhattan skyscraper, but with four high-level terraces - green spaces in the heart of the Square Mile, with amazing views towards the Thames and across the capital. But, despite its classic design, this is different from your average skyscraper. Its story is about innovation, sustainability and pursuing a greener future. Its journey from design to skyline standout was not just about reaching new heights—it is about treading lightly on the planet while doing so.
At a time when some are doubting the future of offices, 40 Leadenhall Street is offering something different that tenants clearly appreciate: almost all of the building is now let.
Optimised for sustainability
Inside 40 Leadenhall Street, smart design and energy efficiency take centre stage. Intelligent sensors adjust lighting and temperature based on occupancy, while high-performance insulation ensures comfort year-round. Every aspect of the building is optimised for sustainability, striving to minimise its environmental footprint without compromising on comfort or convenience.
Water conservation is a priority at 40 Leadenhall Street. Water harvesting systems collect and store water for reuse (though not for drinking), while low-flow fixtures and water-efficient landscaping ensure that every drop is used wisely. It's a small step that sends a powerful message: in the fight against water scarcity, every building has a role to play.
The aim is for 40 Leadenhall Street to achieve BREEAM Excellent and NABERS 5*, among other certifications, demonstrating the ambition to provide a better, cleaner and more productive place to work and spend time.
Despite the impressive certification, what truly sets 40 Leadenhall Street apart isn't just its eco-friendly features. It's the impact it will have on its tenants, staff and visitors. By pushing the boundaries of sustainable architecture, it will inspire others to follow suit, hopefully sparking a revolution in urban design and construction. I believe that people around the world look to 40 Leadenhall Street as a model for a greener, more sustainable future.
So, the next time you find yourself wandering the streets of London, take a moment to look up. Amidst the sea of steel and glass, you'll find a symbol of what is possible when buildings not only stand tall but also stand for the future.