Since its completion, the Shard has been the tallest skyscraper in the UK and Western Europe. But, now a new skyscraper is set to be constructed of the same height. Designed by Eric Parry Architects and in collaboration with Aroland Holdings and Stanthope, and dubbed the 1 Undershaft, this supertall structure will feature a height of (1,015 ft). It will match the Shard’s official height, making it one of the tallest European skyscrapers outside of Russia.
Designer: Eric Parry Architects, Aroland Holdings, and Stanthope
The skyscraper will be located in London and will be equipped with a chunky design with greenery at different points. It will accommodate 154,000 sq m of floor space, spread over nearly 74 floors. Most of these floors will be office space. The building will also include the highest publicly accessible viewing gallery in Europe, as well as an education center for schoolchildren near the top. It will also contain a free-to-access garden area on the 11th floor, as well as some pleasant landscaping.
“Tall buildings can generate huge amounts of value in our cities,” said Eric Parry Architects. “1 Undershaft is a generous building with the aspirations to be a next-generation classic of its kind, both for the public and occupants. A strong and compelling civic quality is woven throughout the design, defining and setting it apart as the cluster’s totemic centerpiece. The building is modelled to provide a series of urban horizons; street level, elevated public garden, amenity floors, and the London Museum classrooms and viewing gallery at the apex of the building. Our redesign of the lower levels has improved both the public realm and engagement on three active frontages, making the base of the building more animated and attractive.”
The 1 Undershaft is still a concept currently, but it will be completed in the early 2030s. It truly is something to look forward to in the architectural realm, and will give some interesting company to the Shard!
