AXA Real Estate Investment Managers will shortly begin construction of the first phase of a major mixed-use urban campus in Hammersmith.
Assembly London, located on the site of the former Harper Collins office on Fulham Palace Road, will eventually comprise four buildings providing a total of 220,000 sq ft of commercial space.
Phase one of the scheme will see the development of two TP Bennett designed buildings, The Foundry and 1 Smith’s Square, which will deliver 150,000 sq ft of new office space and 20,000 sq ft of retail and restaurant space. It also includes the re-landscaping of the public realm by the firm responsible for London’s Olympic Park.
Both buildings will offer business accommodation from 5,000 sq ft upwards, with floorplates of over 20,000 sq ft available at The Foundry, which will be situated at the heart of the estate. The Foundry will also feature a gym, a squash court, a landscaped roof terrace and secure underground parking.
The mixed-use 1 Smith Square, featuring double-height leisure and retail space along with 35,000 sq ft of office space, will act as the gateway to the campus.
Having recently been given the green light by planners, the speculative development is due to commence this month with completion of the first phase expected by the middle of next year.
The three-acre scheme will provide interconnected open and light office accommodation in an area of London with a shortage of Grade A space, and AXA reports that discussions are underway with an international TV and media company regarding the pre-let of around 30,000 sq ft.
Commenting on the launch of the development Harry Badham, Head of UK Development at AXA Real Estate, said: “The rebirth of this district as Assembly London will provide one of the best and most interesting working environments in central London.
“The growth of rents in many central London locations have begun to price out occupiers, and we believe many of these businesses will start to look for new locations where they can find value, whilst still wanting accessibility for staff and a great working environment.
“We believe that Assembly London, with its extensive landscaping, modern and varied office spaces together with a range of retail, restaurants and amenities, provides a highly appealing option, at just 15 minutes from the core West End.”
Joel Hawkins, of London based development manager Bell Hammer which is working with AXA to deliver the scheme, added: “The Foundry is at the heart of Assembly London and provides an opportunity for larger businesses to locate themselves on the estate.
“Even at this early stage, the building has generated interest from potential occupiers already in the locality as well as others looking to relocate from the West End or come into London from further afield.”
Knight Frank and CBRE have been appointed as the office leasing agents while the retail and restaurant space is being marketed by Bruce Gillingham Pollard.
