8 Lancelot Place
London, SW7Located in Knightsbridge, with clear views towards Harrods and the listed buildings of Trevor Square, 8 Lancelot Place is a contemporary office building set within a particularly sensitive historic context. The site is surrounded by conservation areas and neighbouring listed buildings, requiring a careful and measured approach to refurbishment.
Morrow + Lorraine and JoWhiteDesign were appointed by Berkeley Estate Asset Management to deliver a refurbishment that would enhance the building’s arrival experience, improve tenant amenity and support long-term environmental performance.
At street level, the existing glazed entrance box was removed and replaced with a new glazed façade and dark portal to frame views to the new interior. A landscaped courtyard was created to announce the building while providing an inviting sense of privacy.
Conceived as a calm, green moment within the urban setting, the courtyard introduces a Niwaki-inspired planting strategy, combining sculptural trees and underplanting set in dark metal planters and stone paving. Carefully integrated lighting and restrained detailing give the building a renewed presence while remaining respectful of its surroundings.
The original steel and glass reception area was simplified by removing the existing staircase and mezzanine to create a new double-height volume, lined in oak. Oak panels are continued in the 7-storey atrium where steel and glass gantries have been over-clad to bring calm, warmth and tactility to the central space.
Breakout spaces were formed across several levels, and CAT A office accommodation was refurbished to support contemporary workplace use, alongside a transition to fully electric services. On the sixth floor, tenant access was introduced to a new terrace, providing outdoor amenity space with views across Knightsbridge. The washrooms and commuter facilities were also upgraded to further improve the building user experience.
From the entrance courtyard through the atrium and up to the terrace, the refurbishment strengthens the relationship between interior spaces, the surrounding city and key local landmarks.