1 Undershaft to Match the Shard as Western Europe’s Tallest Building
Plans for the construction of 1 Undershaft, a landmark skyscraper set to reach 306.9 metres (1,008 ft), have been approved. Upon completion, the tower will stand as tall as the Shard, making them the joint tallest buildings in Western Europe.
Located in London’s “Eastern Cluster” near the Gherkin, 1 Undershaft will provide 154,156 square metres of premium office space. The building will also feature a unique 1,000-square-metre public area and an educational centre on its 72nd and 73rd floors, created in collaboration with the London Museum. Open every day, including evenings, this “classroom in the sky” will serve as a cultural hub for visitors and schoolchildren.
Another standout feature is the 2,500-square-metre podium garden with a glass floor, perched 42 metres above street level. Spanning levels 10 to 12, it will house cafés, shops, and public seating areas.
Designed by Eric Parry Architects for Aroland Holdings, with Stanhope as the lead developer, the project reflects confidence in London’s real estate market. Shravan Joshi, chair of the City of London Corporation’s planning and transportation committee, praised the project: “1 Undershaft is a truly extraordinary development that meets the demand for economic growth while enriching the City’s cultural and tourist appeal. This building represents an investment in London’s future as a global destination for business and culture.”
Pua Seck Guan of Aroland Holdings emphasised the significant economic and public benefits of the project: “This investment strengthens the City of London and the UK as a whole. We are eager to work with Stanhope and the design team to deliver this iconic landmark.”
Stanhope CEO David Camp highlighted the scale of the project: “1 Undershaft will provide nearly 13% of the City’s required office space by 2040. We are proud to contribute to London’s status as a world-leading destination with this ambitious plan.”
As preparations begin for construction, 1 Undershaft promises to redefine London’s skyline and bolster its cultural and economic appeal.