Contract signed for steel diagrid structure in Paddington

Laing O’Rourke Construction and Derwent London have signed a fixed price contract for the development of the Brunel Building at 55-65 North Wharf Road, Paddington, London with work due to start early next year for completion in the first half of 2019.

The new steel-framed diagrid Brunel Building will comprise 22,300m² of offices fronting the Grand Union Canal opposite Paddington station.

The Fletcher Priest designed building will have 16-storeys with an innovative external diagrid structure, which will enable column-free internal areas and two large roof terraces on the upper floors.

The building’s entrance will face onto the canal alongside a new public realm, which will be created on the waterside.

Laing O’Rourke Managing Director Paul Sheffield, said: “We look forward to delivering the Brunel Building, further strengthening our partnership with Derwent London.

“The project is one that requires complex engineering, supported by our in-house capabilities along with a fully integrated supply chain.  The exposed high-quality features of this fantastic building will be delivered using a blend of traditional construction and off-site manufacturing.”

Derwent London Director Paul Williams, said: “We are very pleased to be working with Laing O’Rourke, and very excited by the prospects for the Brunel Building. The development not only creates high-quality office space it will also significantly add to the vibrancy of the area, which is enjoying significant regeneration ahead of the opening of Crossrail in 2018.”