Piccadilly Circus is a world-famous landmark, known for its curved neon lights, the Eros statue and, of course, the wide array of cinemas, theatres, shops and restaurants in the vicinity. Lucent W1 is a stunning new mixed-use development utilizing the previously empty space behind the iconic Piccadilly Lights and surrounding buildings. Located in the heart of London, U.K., the ambitious scheme seamlessly merges with retained listed façades to deliver 110,000 square feet (10,219 square metres) of premium offices, 30,000 square feet (2,787 square metres) of modern retail units and 3,000 square feet (278 square metres) of high-end residential space. 

Between November 2020 and August 2023, HDR was entrusted with commissioning management for the entire project life cycle, testing its design intent before works began and subsequently ensuring all the building engineering services were delivered effectively, hence leading to optimal performance. HDR will also be providing aftercare for the development in the form of seasonal commissioning.

In a bespoke solution referred to as Safeguarding Works, our commissioning managers maintained a seamless and uninterrupted delivery of all building engineering services to Piccadilly Lights as well as three active retail units throughout the duration of the project, including the demolition phase.

The building features 20 distinct roof terraces with elegant architectural details. This posed an additional challenge regarding design validation and completion in terms of the façade, requiring HDR to interface closely with the construction team to streamline the larger works. 

The project coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic. To maintain momentum for the development, HDR responded proactively by harnessing the latest technology, including Nucleus — our own internally developed commissioning software running fundamental testing scripts, featuring live reporting and open to all stakeholders. Additionally, we provided the Client with absolute confidence by sending our local engineers to perform on-site factory testing across different countries. 

To assist in the client's effort to deliver a truly premium building targeting BREEAM Excellent certification, HDR collaborated closely with the project's sustainability manager and auditor by commissioning and testing a variety of energy-efficient solutions. HDR is also instrumental in supporting the goal of reaching the exclusive health and well-being WELL Gold certification that is being targeted; due to the commissioning management of an industry leading clean air system, which allows for precise user control, as well as the smart building systems interface. 

To guarantee optimal building performance, HDR will be undertaking quarterly seasonal commissioning evaluations of the project for a year after completion. By interviewing tenants and surveying the building in operation, we will establish if Lucent W1 is performing in line with the design intent and understand the positive impact on the well-being of the people who live and work within this prestigious new development in the heart of central London.