A planning application and listed building consent have been submitted for the modernisation of the iconic No.1 Poultry in the City of London.
Completed in 1997, the Grade II* postmodernist building was the final project by the late Sir James Stirling with James Stirling Michael Wilford and Associates.
The modernisation project, which was developed in consultation with the City of London and Historic England, will reveal and reinstate original design details, correct later alterations and repair key Stirling and Wilford principles with a “restrained contemporary approach”.
A central element of the proposal is the reinstatement of free public access to the Apex Garden roof terrace, improved amenities, overhauled thermal performance and enhanced arrival spaces, which will be complemented by a re-engineered interior that supports modern patterns of work and wellbeing.
Flexible floorplates, improved daylighting and a network of more than 200 sensors will support adaptable, low-carbon operation while retaining the rigour of the original plan.
The upgrades could deliver an 80% reduction in operational energy use intensity and the project team is targeting EPC A, BREEAM Outstanding and net zero carbon in use ratings.
Ben Cross, who is co-leading the development on behalf of IGIS Asset Management, said: “To preserve the past, we must design for the future. This refurbishment forms part of a wider conversation about how our cities and historic buildings must adapt to new environmental expectations and patterns of work. It follows extensive consultation with our neighbours, the guardians of its architectural legacy and policy makers. We believe that No.1 Poultry can continue to honour Stirling and Wilford’s intent while significantly reducing energy use and creating a more inclusive, future-ready workplace. It shows how London can preserve what it values while preparing for a more sustainable future.”
Basil Demeroutis, from FORE Partnership, which is co-leading the development on behalf of IGIS Asset Management, added: “No.1 Poultry is a monument to progress that continues to evolve with the City it helped define. Listed buildings come with additional complexities when undertaking major decarbonisation work. You need a skilled team, a forensic approach and a great deal of tenacity.
“Our innovation partnership with Breakthrough Energy and UKGBC demonstrates that even the most challenging, high-profile buildings can be upgraded to meet twenty-first century performance standards. No.1 Poultry is an extraordinary building, rich in character but under-occupied and under-performing. Our ambition is to make it a frontrunner in one of the world’s most competitive office markets, securing long-term occupation while reinvesting in its public and carbon future.”
Tom Foxall, regional director at Historic England, said: “No.1 Poultry is one of the most celebrated examples of postmodern architecture in the country. We support these proposals to reinvigorate and retrofit this landmark building so that it can continue to contribute positively to the local area and economy. We’re pleased to have contributed to a thorough, collaborative consultation process and to have helped shape a sustainable long-term future for this Grade II* listed building.”
