At Robert Bird Group (RBG), we are renowned for our inventive engineering solutions, and our contribution to the 2 Finsbury Avenue (2FA) project in the heart of London exemplifies that. Designed by 3XN and Adamson Associates for British Land, and built by Sir Robert McAlpine, this “vertical campus” is set to become an instantly iconic landmark in Broadgate, the largest pedestrianised neighbourhood in Central London. Comprising 750,000sq.ft. of prime office space, the vast development spans a 36-storey east tower and a 21-storey west tower, connected by a 12-storey podium level with a deep basement.
We’re proud to have played a crucial role in overcoming the challenges presented by this complex project so far. Appointed by Sir Robert McAlpine (SRM), the main contractor, we were tasked with accelerating the construction programme while ensuring structural integrity and safety. Following our collaborative peer review of the structural engineering design, this has involved a combination of permanent works alternative proposals and the development of innovative temporary works.
Following the completion of the three-storey basement excavation, our team recently attended the Bottoming Out Ceremony, marking a major milestone in this ambitious project. This significant achievement is the culmination of an extraordinary feat of top-down engineering, allowing excavation to progress while simultaneously constructing the slipform cores and steel frame above. Reaching this point has required exemplary teamwork between our engineers, the architect, the construction team, the permanent works engineers, and countless other collaborators. The ceremony was a fantastic day of celebrations and an opportunity for the entire 2FA team to raise a glass and reflect on the incredible progress we’ve made, together.
At RBG, we were responsible for developing the “jump-start” construction design, enabling the core of the towers to be launched early in the process. This, along with the top-down basement construction sequence, significantly accelerated the programme and reduced the risk of delays. Drawing on our extensive experience in top-down construction projects like 100 Bishopsgate, Nova Victoria, and The Shard, we brought a wealth of valuable knowledge; our ability to identify and implement effective time-saving measures ensured the project stayed on track.
Our buildability focus also shone through in our proposal for an alternative transfer structure solution at level 5. This simplification, which was adopted by the permanent works engineer, eliminated a critical hold point in the steel frame erection, further streamlining the construction process. This proactive approach to problem-solving highlights our commitment to delivering efficient and cost-effective solutions.
Another notable contribution we’ve made to the 2FA project has been assisting SRM in delivering an innovative floating crane. As the third-party checking engineer, we handled the steel member design, steel-to-steel and steel-to-concrete connections for a cleverly cantilevered supporting grillage, which enabled the crane’s construction in a small, highly congested space.
We’re proud to see the project’s recent shortlisting for a New London Award in the workplace category. These prestigious awards, supported by the Mayor of London, recognise projects that make a positive contribution to the city. 2FA’s innovative design, sustainable features, and community-focused approach clearly resonated with the judges.
The building is envisioned as a “vertical campus,” promoting connectivity and collaboration. Its flexible workspaces, green areas, and terraces are intended to foster creativity and social interaction. The development also includes a learning hub accessible to the local community, further embedding it within the fabric of the neighbourhood.
