Architect Hopkins has unveiled detailed plans to overhaul 1 Embankment Place above London’s Charing Cross Station, turning the ageing air-rights landmark into a high-spec, low-carbon office and mixed-use destination.

Working for developer Bridgemont, the scheme will retain around 90% of the existing Terry Farrell-designed structure and most of the façade, but rework the building internally and at ground level to bring it up to modern standards.

Plans include 35,000 sq m of Grade A office space with new outdoor terraces, upgraded amenities and a complete rethink of the ground floor to introduce a more premium mix of retail, food and leisure space.

The design also opens up the building at street level, with active frontages and improved daylight aimed at transforming its relationship with Villiers Street.

Re-imagined Villiers Street after 1 Embankment Place revamp

A major sustainability upgrade sits at the core of the project, with targets including a 70% cut in operational energy, all-electric systems, integrated rooftop photovoltaics, and top-tier ratings including BREEAM Outstanding.

The wider scheme will also improve pedestrian links around the site, but the focus remains on repositioning the building as one of Westminster’s largest retrofit-led workspace opportunities.

Plans are now out to public consultation ahead of submission for planning.