ISG wins £47 million Kensington mixed-use development

ISG has secured a £47 million project to create high-quality commercial office and retail space at 127 Kensington High Street – the former site of the renowned Pontings Department Store. 

The building was acquired in February 2019 by AshbyCapital, the property investment advisory company, from Columbia Threadneedle Investments.   

The project sees ISG retain part of the existing structure on site, and construct two additional floors to double the current volume of office space on site.

We will also create a new elevation using an attractive pale white brick and Portland stone to provide a contemporary and architecturally sympathetic addition to this important London thoroughfare. 

Designed by Pilbrow & Partners, the new building creates 12,081 sq m of Grade-A commercial office space, incorporates ground level retail areas and restores the historic street line on the adjacent Wrights Lane. 

A new retail arcade will improve connectivity to Kensington High Street Underground station from Wrights Lane. 

Built on the site of the former Pontings department store, which closed in 1970, the new development will significantly improve the surrounding public realm to ensure the continuation of the thriving retail trade on this part of the high street. 

The new mixed-use development will provide high-quality office accommodation with improved accessibility and flexible floorplates. 

The building will also feature generous external terraces and is targeting a BREEAM Excellent environmental performance rating. 

Steven McGee, managing director of ISG’s UK Construction South business, said: “The redevelopment of 127 Kensington High Street will transform the aesthetic of the existing building and dramatically improve the street-scape at this busy intersection in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

“This complex scheme has been meticulously planned to maximise the potential for the site, whilst reducing impact on the local community, businesses and key transport links.

“The decision to retain, reconfigure and extend, rather than demolish the existing 1970s building, has also significantly reduced the project programme and showcases the benefits of close collaboration between all project stakeholders to innovate and seek the best possible outcomes.”