Global law firm Clifford Chance has advised long standing client Helical plc on its participation in the redevelopment of Brettenham House, a 126,000 sq ft landmark building occupying a prime location on the elbow of the River Thames on the Duchy of Lancaster’s historic London estate. Helical have been appointed as development manager to the scheme and will use their extensive development expertise to assist the building owner to bring the project to fruition.
The building, which is a beautiful example of 1930s Art Deco architecture, is being sensitively remodelled to create valuable new office space complete with 9th floor terraces and panoramic river views, while retaining heritage features such as marble-clad stair cores and a stunning triple height reception space.  Once complete, the substantial refurbishment will reposition this important asset, which fronts one of the majestic elevations of Somerset House, as a contemporary office building within a thriving submarket.
In line with Helical’s commitments to sustainability, Brettenham House will be targeting BREEAM Outstanding, EPC A, Nabers 5* and Well Platinum. The aim is to divert 95 percent of all construction waste from landfill and to enhance local biodiversity via a comprehensive landscaping scheme across the building.
Clifford Chance Real Estate Partner Ian Painter commented: “We were pleased to work with Helical to help re-stock their development pipeline with another great project and look forward to seeing Brettenham House evolve as part of this sustainable refurbishment which fully aligns with Helical’s strategic vision.”
This transaction follows several recent significant mandates the firm has worked on for Helical including its joint venture with Orion Capital Managers for the redevelopment of 100 New Bridge Street and the sale of its 50 percent stake in the JJ Mack building to Ashby Capital.
The multidisciplinary team was led by Real Estate Partner Ian Painter with assistance from Senior Associates Holly Porter and Rose Tinker. Â Planning advice was provided by Environment and Planning Partner Nigel Howorth and Senior Associate Kate Mackintosh. Â Construction advice was provided by Construction Partner Ed Bretherton and Real Estate Finance Partner Laura Smallcombe provided input on the financing elements of the project.
