Located at the southern gateway to Leadenhall Market, in the heart of London’s insurance district, 21 Lime Street is a striking new Grade A office and retail development. Delivered on behalf of KHI Holdings Group, the project transformed a historically sensitive site into a high-profile, energy-efficient commercial building, just 100 metres from the Lloyd’s Building.

The scheme had faced a complex 20-year history of stalled development. It ultimately delivered 35,000 sq ft of commercial space, comprising seven upper floors of high-quality office accommodation and two ground-floor retail units.

Designed by Leach Rhodes Walker LLP, 21 Lime Street features an eye-catching, angular façade, constructed using large pre-cast limestone-clad panels. The steel-framed structure is supported by new piled foundations, carefully integrated through an archaeologically sensitive site. A concrete basement and transfer slab enabled efficient space utilisation within a constrained urban footprint. With full-height glazing and rooftop terraces on the upper floors, the building offers exceptional views and premium workspace in one of London’s most prestigious locations.

As Project Director at his previous firm, Nick Bentley overcame an extraordinary set of challenges, including:

• 23 party wall agreements and disputes successfully negotiated and resolved.

• Complex negotiations with the City of London Corporation to clarify and confirm site boundaries.

• A Section 73 planning amendment secured an additional 5,800 sq ft of net internal area.

• Careful site coordination due to the site’s tight pedestrian location and proximity to listed heritage buildings.

The project was dubbed “the most difficult project in London” at the time by the archaeology team due to the sensitivity and complexity of the site.

Despite these obstacles, 21 Lime Street was fully let at completion and has made a significant contribution to the vibrancy of the Leadenhall Market area.