HYLO

A Case Study in Creative Development Management

• Projects by Steve Riddell at previous employers

challenges

HYLO (formerly Finsbury Tower) was a 15-storey, 1960s office building located on the periphery of the City of London and the emerging ‘Silicon Roundabout’. The building had become outdated, poorly configured, and was in need of significant refurbishment. However, the refurbishment costs were high due to its age, and the final product risked being unattractive to both tech and city occupiers. Additionally, planning policies in the area explicitly ruled out the construction of a new, taller building.

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Creative Solutions

Steve recognised the potential within the existing structure of the building. By drawing on his expertise and working closely with a team of key stakeholders—including AKTII (structural engineers), DP9 (planners), and Karen Alcock (lobbyist), Steve identified the building’s structural redundancy, which made it viable for an extension. Through careful strategic planning, he developed a comprehensive approach that would not only revitalise the existing tower but significantly enhance its value by extending it upwards.
The development strategy focused on engaging with Islington Council and securing political backing by over-delivering on affordable housing. This support was instrumental in obtaining planning consent for the project within 18 months of acquisition, a notable achievement in a challenging planning environment.

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Outcomes

The strategy led to the successful addition of 15 tower floors and 3 podium floors, increasing the building’s Net Internal Area (NIA) from 150,000 sq ft to 311,000 sq ft, more than doubling its size. The extension and refurbishment transformed the building into a high-quality office space, with best-in-class amenities, catering to the needs of modern occupiers.
The completed scheme now offers a flexible and desirable office environment, positioned to attract both tech-sector tenants from nearby Old Street and city occupiers seeking modern, well-located spaces. The project not only met but exceeded the original goals, delivering a highly valuable asset with long-term appeal.

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