London’s skyline gets a bold new addition: The Round

London is getting a sky-high makeover. 

A stunning trio of skyscrapers designed by Foster + Partners has been approved for Bankside, overlooking the River Thames — and they’re set to redefine the city’s skyline.

The project, dubbed "The Round", will feature:

• 800,000 sq ft of office space – built for the future of work

• A total of 1.3 million sq ft of development

• 400+ new homes across 2 residential towers – bringing stylish urban living to the heart of London

• Cascading green terraces and flexible floorplans for modern workspaces

• A cultural hub – a new landmark for entertainment.

Construction

Developer Hines has reportedly secured a £1 billion ($1.27 billion) investment package to bring this landmark development to life. 

And with construction set to kick off, Londoners can start dreaming of their new panoramic Thames views.

UK media reported on Thursday (February 6) that real estate investor has received full planning approval from Southwark Council to transform a "largely vacant site" on Blackfriars Road, Bankside into a sustainable office and residential neighbourhood by 2030.

Construction is set to begin later this year.

Low-carbon, high-rise

Hines describes it as the “lowest whole-life carbon high-rise development” in London, aligning with growing pressure for net-zero buildings as climate change and government regulations make sustainability an obligation rather than an option.

Community and wellbeing

Hines will contribute £74 million ($94 million) to Southwark Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy and an additional £12 million ($15 million) towards affordable workspaces as part of a Section 106 package.

Ross Blair, Senior Managing Director and UK Country Head at Hines, was quoted as saying that the project will create "a place that supports people’s wellbeing — somewhere they leave feeling better than when they arrived."

London’s office demand and sustainable shift

With demand rising for high-quality, sustainable office spaces, The Round is among several developments aiming to reshape London’s urban landscape.

“The workplace and home are where we spend most of our time—enhancing these spaces can have a transformational impact on both body and mind,” Blair added.

Hines reaffirmed its long-term commitment to London’s future as a global hub for culture, education, and business, putting emphasis on sustainability and social wellbeing.