The last upper two storeys of the tower function as plant rooms, concealed by perforated aluminium rainscreen panels, which follow the same curved connection scheme as the
lower floors.
The main envelope consists of a grey SSG unitised façade, typical dimension 2m wide x 3.8m high clad with high performance DGU low – iron glass ( light transmission 48.5%
- solar factor 28.5% - U= 1.0 W/m2K). These performances have been achieved with a “double-frit” 1mm diameter ceramic dot screen-printed and baked onto an internal layer
of the double-laminated glass panels, which also decreases the solar gain. In order to improve the performance, the vision units are alternated with spandrel units, dimension 1m wide x 3.8m high, reproducing a chessboard pattern.

The design challenge was to reconcile diverse aims. The planning authority sought a replacement tower respecting the height of its predecessor by minimising its visual impact, while the client team of Mitsui Fudosan UK and Stanhope Plc 44 wished to maximise value by increasing efficiency and turning 5 the building to appeal to a wide profile of tenants, focusing particularly on quality.

Through its near-invisible façade, Angel Court blends seamlessly into the surrounding area, providing a stunning statement of architectural detailing and innovation whilst respecting its position within the historic Bank of England Conservation Area.

Additional floor space was created by increasing the girth of the tower and rationalising the geometry of the lower podium elements. The footprint of the building at ground floor level allowed an increase in public realm area. Where previously there had been a dark alleyway at ground level, there is a lively new pedestrian street with commissioned artworks that is lined with 100m of shops and restaurants.

A cosmopolitan practice employing around 100 people working on remarkable architectural, urban design and research project. It works at all scales in many sectors for a wide range of clients. Their portfolio includes many projects in London, but also the South East and other cities such as Manchester. Besides the UK, they are currently working abroad in Germany, the Baltic and Brazil. Their schemes have been recognized with many awards. Angel Court continues Fletcher Priest’s development of sustainable urban workplaces, which bring benefits to occupants and the public alike.