If you've been to Canary Wharf, you'll likely remember the Thomson Reuters building, a significant figure between One Canada Square and 20 Cabot Square, overlooking the Middle Dock.

Today, thanks to developer Quadrant and the architects at Buckley Gray Yeoman, the building has been reinvented as YY London, a standout contemporary workspace in the centre of the financial district.

Just like its surroundings, the building reflects the evolution of Canary Wharf from a finance-dominated district to a diverse business and residential hub. The financial sector, once responsible for 90% of the occupancy, has given way to a variety of corporate entities and an increasing residential population. With the addition of the Elizabeth Line station, access to Bond Street and Liverpool Street has never been faster, enhancing Canary Wharf's accessibility and appeal.

Canary Wharf isn't just business; it’s also about lifestyle. The district now regularly hosts a range of cultural events, from arts to music, and even boasts a unique partnership with the Eden Project to boost biodiversity. Alongside new residential schemes and a growing number of food and beverage establishments, Canary Wharf has become a vibrant destination both day and night.

YY London, the former Reuters building at 30 South Colonnade, has now been reimagined as a leading-edge workspace. The redeveloped 415,000 sq ft building spans 14 floors and boasts a unique Y-shaped façade. Inside, Buckley Gray Yeoman's design includes floor-to-ceiling glazing for maximum natural light and a triple-height reception that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, providing a place for people to meet, work, eat, and drink.

By retaining the existing structure of the building, Quadrant has saved 10,260 tonnes of CO2 emissions. The building is all-electric, aiming for net zero, and is on track to achieve a BREEAM Outstanding rating. It's also secured a Well Platinum rating, highlighting its commitment to wellness with outdoor space on every floor, 300 cycle spaces, 300 lockers, and 30 showers.

Tristram Gethin, Founding Partner, Quadrant, commented: “The amenities and spaces we require from offices, as well as the leisure and retail facilities available close by, have never been more important. YY London is a fantastic example of what can be done to sustainably and creatively refurbish an existing building, providing an extraordinary workspace in a London location that is in the midst of an exciting transformation.”   

YY London office building is available through Knight Frank and CBRE.

Photo: YY London on Saturday 8th July 2023. See more photos on YY London development profile.