Plans in for major mixed-use scheme on London's Strand

Proposals by Adjaye Associates to replace a 1980s office building in London’s Strand with a 12-storey stone and bronze scheme have been lodged with Westminster city council.

The plans for 5 Strand, created for developers Alchemi Group and BlackRock Real Estate, include ground-floor retail units, around 5,700sq m of new office space and 26 apartments on its upper floors.

David Adjaye said the proposals for the site, which is a stone’s throw from Trafalgar Square, had evolved over 12 months and involved extensive consultation with the city council, Historic England and the Westminster Society.

“The opportunity to work on the Strand, adjacent to the iconic Traflagar Square, is an immense honour and one that I do not take lightly,” he said.

“My team and I have undergone rigorous investigation into the history and development of this crucial piece of London’s urban fabric.”

Laura Marino, Alchemi co-founder and creative director, said she believed the proposal was “truly outstanding”.

Adjaye Associates was selected for the project following a private competition.