RSA Insurance
62-63 Threadneedle Street
Situated near the Bank of England, this retrofit project transformed a historic building into a sustainable, flexible space that balances modern needs with its 1970s character.
KEY FACTS
Project: Refurbishment
Sector: Commercial
Size: 29,550 sq ft
Programme: 50 weeks
Contract: JCT Design and Build 2016
TEAM
Architect: Rolfe Judd
PM: Stace
PQS: Stace
Services: Mecserve
The Project
We delivered a transformative retrofit in the heart of London’s conservation area, revitalising this historic building into a sustainable and modern workspace while respecting its architectural heritage. We reconfigured the ground floor to create a more welcoming and functional layout, relocating the main entrance to strengthen its presence on Threadneedle Street.
The new reclad façade adds depth and rebalances the visual weight of the building, drawing design cues from the Portland stone frieze of the nearby Bank of England. We used honed Blue Pearl granite for the new façade, contrasting it with the polished granite above, while a flamed finish highlights key features like the main entrance. Internally, we introduced a central lobby featuring terrazzo flooring and bespoke timber joinery, celebrating the building’s 1970s origins. Natural oak panelling and recycled stone finishes combine to create an inviting, light-filled space for greeting, meeting, and working.
Sustainability was central to our approach, as we focused on reusing existing materials and reducing carbon emissions wherever possible. We retained mechanical ductwork and plant systems, complemented by new, efficient installations, while façade upgrades improved thermal and acoustic performance. These efforts helped us achieve a BREEAM “Excellent” rating.
To expand and modernise the office space, we constructed rear extensions that provide increased NIA and external terraces, with structural flexibility for future upward expansion. At the basement level, we created dedicated amenities, including cycle storage, maintenance areas, shower facilities, and a gym, all designed to enhance wellbeing and usability. This project demonstrates our ability to extend a building’s lifespan while delivering sustainable, adaptable spaces that meet the needs of modern occupiers.
Embedding Sustainability
We focused on reusing materials like ductwork, plant systems, and raised floors, while incorporating energy-efficient systems and façade upgrades to improve performance. These efforts helped achieve a BREEAM “Excellent” rating, reducing carbon emissions and extending the building’s lifespan. This sustainable approach added value by creating an eco-conscious workspace that meets modern demands and sets a benchmark for retrofits.
Structural Upgrades in a Live Conservation Area
We managed the complex integration of new structural elements, including rear extensions and a reclad façade, within the constraints of a conservation area and an occupied site. By carefully coordinating the interface between the new steel framework and the existing concrete structure, we ensured seamless construction with minimal disruption. These structural enhancements expanded usable space, future-proofed the building for upward expansion, and improved functionality, adding significant value for tenants and stakeholders.
The project was in a prime busy location which required bespoke procedures and processes in place to ensure successfully delivery.
Wayne Pinnock, Project Director, 8build
