Built in 1965, The Met Building was inspired by New York’s Lever Building, a style that became a defining feature along Euston Road. Sitting on the fringe of the Bedford Estate Conservation Area, the challenge was to retain and repurpose as much of the existing structure as possible, while enhancing connectivity, flexibility, and wellbeing.
The Met Building
Tottenham Court Road, W1
Balancing retention with modern flexibility
40% less carbon emissions through retention
- Retained the external façades, cutting CO₂ emissions by 40%.
- Used the rear podium wall for fire compartmentation, saving 30% on materials and manufacturing emissions.
- Achieved a Gold Wired Score, integrating structured cabling wherever possible to enhance digital connectivity.
A more fexible, active, and natural workspace
- Connected the tower and podium, creating a flexible 47,000 sq ft workspace that can be used as a single unit or split into 15,000 sq ft floors.
- Repurposed unused plant areas into multi-level roof gardens, including a floating patio over the service yard.
- Added 3,600 sq ft of outdoor terraces, providing much-needed green space in a dense urban setting.
- Created dedicated lift access for each floor, improving tenant experience and circulation.
Smart energy and wellbeing innovations
- Replaced and relocated the air conditioning system to the rear of the roof, freeing up space to create a rooftop lounge with sprawling city views.
- Retractable roof in the rooftop lounge allows for natural ventilation and automatically shuts off the ACwhen open, reducing energy consumption.
- UV-specified glazing reduces solar gain, lowering cooling demand when the retractable roof is closed.
- Upgraded hybrid AC system integrates cutting-edge air quality monitoring, optimising indoor air quality while reducing operational costs.
- New cycle stair leading to a bike store, featuring a repair shop and state-of-the-art end-of-trip facilities to promote active commuting.
The impact
- 40% reduction in embodied carbon through retention and reuse.
- Lower operational emissions with a hybrid AC system that adapts to ventilation needs.
- Enhanced cycling and active travel options with a dedicated bike store and repair facilities.
- A highly flexible workspace, offering single or multi-let options with smart, future-proofed design.
The Met Building proves that retaining and refining existing structures is the most sustainable way to build. By reimagining underutilised space, integrating smart energy solutions, and prioritising wellbeing, we created a modern workplace that’s better for people and the planet.
