One New Change

As part of Landsec’s retail framework Common Ground Workshop have created ideas proposals to rejuvenate the public realm and retail experience over four levels at the Iconic One New Change, City of London.

Opening in 2010 with a hugely optimistic agenda to establish Cheapside as “the city’s high street,” the development was initially shaped by assumptions about how people would engage with multi-level retail-focused public realm spaces. However, over the years, shifts in consumer habits and the evolution of the retail experience have fundamentally altered these expectations. The rise of online shopping, the growing demand for experiential destinations, and an increased emphasis on sustainability have redefined what people seek from urban retail environments.

In response, the project brief called for a bold and imaginative transformation of the Basement, Ground, and First floors, as well as the existing Sky Garden. The objective was to craft innovative, sustainable, and visually compelling interventions that would revitalise the site, re-establishing it as a dynamic and vibrant “seven-day destination.”

When envisioning the site as a destination, our proposals extend beyond creating a visually striking and interactive public realm. They also emphasise redefining the connections between individual operators and the broader building ecosystem. This holistic approach ensures a seamless blend of engaging visitor experiences with a thoughtfully curated and synergistic operational framework.

Our proposals seek to create a benchmark for the future possibilities of retail space, envisioning the site as a holistic ecosystem where the interplay between operators and public spaces creates a seamless and cohesive identity. This strategy supports not only the creation of engaging environments but also a sustainable and thriving urban destination that remains a magnet for visitors and stakeholders alike.