This commercial retrofit proposal introduces a dynamic north-south canyon, seamlessly linking Canada Square and Jubilee Park at ground level. By redefining the building’s thermal envelope, we unlock the potential for extensive greenery, transforming this space into a vibrant, nature-filled corridor. The canyon becomes a public hub, integrating office entrances, retail, F&B, and cultural spaces, with circulation designed to engage visitors at every level. Natural light and fresh air filter down to the lower levels, activating the underutilised car park, which will be replaced with a wellness centre and public functions—creating a space for all to enjoy.

PRINCIPLES

NEATNESS

Informality in architecture can be attractive. The ‘found’ space, the asymmetric, the messy. To improve the opportunity for serendipity, and to attract attention a little messiness can go a long way.

NORTH - SOUTH CONNECT

33 CS offers a unique opportunity to connect the north and south gardens together and also connect them directly to Canary Wharf Jubilee Line.

HOME TO DESK JOURNEY

Lubricating the wellness journey from home to desk by considering the entrance, drop off, arrival sequence by bike and by foot is critical to successful tenancies. 33 CS offers the opportunity to create daylit arrival and enjoyable journeys for all.

A PLACE TO BE

33 Canada Square is a prominent destination. Seen along the vista from Wood Wharf and next to the Jubilee line Station. This is an opportunity to further humanise Canary Wharf, and create drama at high level for those who visit, work and live here.

BRAND - PERCEPTION

Canary Wharf was once thought of as a monocultural place for banking, the new 2040 vision changes this perception from BANKS to PLACES. 33 CS must become a ‘PLACE’.

ENTRANCE - IDENTITY

33 CS hides itself away to the street to the south. There is an opportunity to create activity at ground level associated with the landscape. South facing, breakfast, lunch, dinner a perfect spot to meet.

GREENERY - VERTIGO - FIRE

Vertigo within the building is a problem. The Balustrade is currently above eye height. There is a need to replace this and reconsider this threshold. The current atria cannot be fire loaded due to the bridges and escape routes. If this space is external we can make it Green and luscious.

FRESH BREAK OUT

Changing facades can be expensive. The primary reason must be to improve the environment of the users of the building, to supply fresh air or to create external spaces for users to enjoy fresh air to improve wellness in order to improve productivity and attract the best workers.

SUBTERRANEAN WORLD

The opportunity to further connect the ground floor and basement malls to local and adjacent green spaces would improve the overall experience of visiting Canary Wharf.

ADDITIVE - SUBTRACTIVE

We have explored experiential sustainability in detail. Being connected to the sun and to nature. We have also carefully considered material sustainability. How to do most with the least amount of change for both environmental sustainability and financial.

HARD - SOFT

Buildings are like people they can be introvert and extrovert, welcoming or off putting. 33 CS needs to get out more. We have the opportunity to soften, express and connect the people of Canary Wharf to and through this building.

FRESH AIR

The whole atria can be open to fresh air offering the opportunity to change the ‘feeling’ of the spaces not just the aesthetic for tenants. A fresh place to visit and work. Whether the rain is allowed to enter is a decision to be made.

SEAMLESS INTEGRATION OF LANDSCAPE, ARCHITECTURE AND EXPERIENCE

A grand entry colonnade welcomes visitors into the Canyon, setting back the lower three floors to create a vibrant F&B hub with stepped landscaping for al fresco dining. The harsh boundary at Jubilee Park is softened, replacing the existing hedge with a wide, south-facing timber deck beneath the trees, offering inviting outdoor seating. Timber elements extend through the colonnade and Canyon, visually and experientially linking Middle Dock, reinforcing the east-west spine of Canary Wharf. Thoughtful design solutions preserve the presence of The Alchemist, integrating it seamlessly through potential extensions or additional openings to its south-facing façade.

UNLOCKING CONNECTIONS

Despite its prime location, 33 Canada Square remains disconnected - both visually and physically - from key routes and spaces. The station-facing north side is muted, with no engagement at ground or roof level, while public realm to the west is obstructed by newly inserted buildings. However, with the completion of Eden Dock, a new opportunity emerges: to bridge Middle Dock and Wood Wharf, enhancing connectivity and creating a cohesive, dynamic experience that adds value beyond the sum of its parts.

LIGHT, CONNECTIVY & VIBRANCY BELOW GROUND

A key design focus is to introduce natural light, fresh air, and dynamic activity into underground spaces, transforming them into vibrant extensions of the public realm. By extending value beyond traditional ground-level spaces, the project reimagines below-ground areas as active, engaging, and functional environments.

This transformation will enhance public connectivity and introduce premium landlord amenities, offering new opportunities for social interaction, work, and leisure. A highly distinctive event space will be complemented by an external sunken courtyard, providing a unique and adaptable setting for various gatherings and experiences.

At the B2 level, a one-of-a-kind, highly desirable lettable space will feature its own dedicated external courtyard, offering a rare combination of exclusivity, natural light, and outdoor access in an underground setting.

A LANDMARK OFFICE ADDRESS

A distinctive new office address is set to redefine the workplace experience, offering a prestigious and unique location. The entrance will be positioned at the heart of a vibrant new street, creating a dynamic and engaging arrival experience.

Designed to seamlessly connect the workplace with the outdoors, the office will feature a grand, bright, and outward-facing reception area, flooding the space with natural light while establishing a welcoming and professional first impression. This striking reception will not only serve as the gateway to the office but also contribute to the energy of the surrounding streetscape, enhancing its vitality and appeal.

Further elevating the workplace experience, a sophisticated office lounge will provide a comfortable and inspiring setting, offering attractive views of Eden Dock. This carefully designed space will foster collaboration, relaxation, and productivity while ensuring a strong visual and physical connection to the surrounding environment.

FROM INTERNAL SPACE TO FRESH & LIVELY OUTDOOR SPACE

The existing atrium will be transformed from an internal space into a new, publicly accessible external area called the ‘Canyon.’ This verdant space is designed to be vibrant and active, accommodating pedestrians, retail, and other activities, creating a dynamic new addition to the public realm.

A UNIQUE ENTRANCE EXPERIENCE

The workplace arrival experience begins through a dynamic, thoughtfully designed Canyon. Every office floor is accessed via a glazed bridge going through the Canyon offering an dynamic entrance experience. This approach not only sets the tone for the journey into the office but also creates a seamless transition from the outside world into a modern, inspiring workspace. The Canyon, with its architectural elegance, will act as a focal point, leading visitors and employees into the heart of the building.

FLEXIBLE, ADAPTABLE & ATTRACTIVE WORKPLACES WITH VERDANT TERRACES

The office plan is designed with maximum flexibility, allowing tenants to configure their spaces to suit evolving business needs - whether open-plan, private offices, or hybrid layouts. These adaptable workspaces foster collaboration, productivity, and well-being while ensuring long-term usability. Every tenant enjoys access to a private, lushly planted external terrace, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor environments. These verdant retreats not only enhance workplace appeal but also provide a refreshing escape, promoting creativity and relaxation. The result is a highly attractive, future-proof workplace that prioritises both functionality and employee experience.

FINE DINING WITH SPECTACULAR SKYLINE VIEWS

An exceptional luxury dining and drinking experience set against breathtaking city panoramas. Guests can indulge in world-class cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails in an elegant setting, with seamless access to a stunning external terrace—perfect for al fresco dining while soaking in the skyline.

A BEACON FOR CANARY WHARF

Reimagining the top two floors of 33 CS as a dynamic public space capitalises on its prime location, creating an inviting destination for visitors. This transformation maintains existing lift access with minimal structural change while unlocking new opportunities for engagement. A striking high-level beacon serves as both a landmark and a visual connection between the ground-level colonnade and the rooftop, drawing people in from Wood Wharf and beyond. More than just an architectural statement, the beacon offers breathtaking panoramic views—an Instagram-worthy moment at sunset—embodying a softer, more welcoming Canary Wharf.

A PANORAMIC VIEWPOINT & ICONIC BEACON

A striking new public space offering a seamless connection to Eden Dock, this elevated landmark serves as both a dynamic gathering place and a captivating visual intervention. Framing breathtaking panoramic views, it becomes a beacon of identity - drawing visitors in and redefining the skyline with its engaging presence.

CANADA SQUARE

Commercial retrofit of 33 Canada Square. ‘The Canyon’ is a sun filled, wind filled, fresh, biodiverse place that people meet, work and play in.