Building on History: Adaptive Reuse on London’s Southbank

Protecting this part of history to pass it on to future generations is vital.

London, United Kingdom. Situated on London’s eclectic Southbank, 76 Southbank is a striking example of Brutalist design by renowned British architect, Sir Denys Lasdun. Completed in 1983 as IBM’s headquarters, the building was granted Grade II listed status in 2020, cementing its status as one of London’s key cultural landmarks. In fact, this area might as well be referred to as Lasdun’s London - 76 Southbank sits adjacent to the National Theatre, another of his iconic inner-city developments. 

To preserve the building’s distinctive mid-century character, all 200 existing pre-cast panels were carefully removed, refurbished, and reinstalled. Though the façade remains unchanged, 76 Southbank required significant modernisation within. With reuse at the top of our shared agenda, Multiplex collaborated closely with AHMM’s design team to retain 80% of the original internal structure, while delivering 300,000 sq ft of revitalised, state-of-the-art office space.

As on all our projects, sustainability was a core focus throughout the construction process. We are proud to report that no fossil fuels were involved in delivery, and up to 60% ground granulated blast-furnace slag was used as a cement alternative in the new structural concrete, which significantly reduced carbon emissions.

At Multiplex, we take a holistic approach to construction. The team at 76 Southbank were committed to supporting the Lambeth community throughout the project, contributing 379 volunteering hours and raising over £28,000 for employment-focused charities. We created 90 job opportunities, as well as 31 apprenticeships and 14 work experience placements, involving and championing the local community.

We want to welcome people from all backgrounds, even those who hadn’t considered construction before, and that’s what makes 76 Southbank so special.

At Multiplex, we believe in nurturing future talent. Through partnerships with local schools and youth organisations, we hosted 17 community engagement sessions during the project, involving 362 students with hands-on experiences and career insights, as well as offering placements and apprenticeships.

There’s something special about working alongside older generations after college, it really helps you mature. This experience has had a big impact on me.

Thanks to the spirit of collaboration and innovation fostered onsite, the 76 Southbank adaptive reuse project was completed in just 19 months, delivering a project that looks boldly towards the future, while honouring the past.