K1 Knightsbridge
K1 Knightsbridge
Demolition contractor: Keltbray
Main Contractor: Skanska
K1 Knightsbridge is a luxury mixed-use development at the Sloane Street end of Knightsbridge, opposite Harvey Nichols and One Hyde Park. The scheme delivers commercial, residential, and retail space alongside a new entrance to Knightsbridge Underground Station
Our Role
Our RoleWentworth's scope included the full façade retention scheme, with extensive underpinning of the existing foundations, and the provision of temporary works during the demolition phase, carried out by Keltbray.
Capabilities
Capabilities- Buildings
- Substructure
- Demolition
- Adaptive Re-use
- Cut and Carve
- Structural Engineering
- Geotechnics
- Construction Method Engineering
- Temporary Works
Adapting façade retention to structural conditions
Adapting façade retention to structural conditionsThe façade varied significantly in construction type and basement configuration, while underground services restricted foundation positions. Traditional single-system approaches wouldn't work across the site. We developed three retention systems matched to local constraints: vertically cantilevering frames with kentledge in vaults, horizontally spanning trusses on temporary towers, and pavement-supported frames. Each addressed specific structural requirements and service restrictions.
Underpinning and protecting Underground tunnels
Underpinning and protecting Underground tunnelsLowering the existing basement level required substantial underpinning work near critical Transport for London and London Underground infrastructure. This included the Piccadilly Line tunnels, as well ventilation shafts and the main passenger entrance for Knightsbridge Station.
We designed deep underpinning for temporary and permanent conditions with sequencing maintaining stability throughout excavation. Basement propping combined raking props, thrust blocks, and partial use of existing slabs to control movements while protecting adjacent infrastructure.
Knightsbridge Station remained fully operational throughout construction
We designed deep underpinning for temporary and permanent conditions with sequencing maintaining stability throughout excavation. Basement propping combined raking props, thrust blocks, and partial use of existing slabs to control movements while protecting adjacent infrastructure.
Knightsbridge Station remained fully operational throughout construction
Coordinating extensive temporary works
Coordinating extensive temporary worksThe extensive nature of the existing and future structure required close coordination of the temporary works to avoid clashes and prevent delays.
We created detailed 3D models in Tekla software to identify interface conflicts during the design phase, combining façade retention, underpinning, propping, and permanent structure.
We created detailed 3D models in Tekla software to identify interface conflicts during the design phase, combining façade retention, underpinning, propping, and permanent structure.
Outcomes
OutcomesBy developing multiple retention approaches for varying conditions, we delivered a sensitive façade retention scheme efficiently constructed in the congested Knightsbridge environment.
- Heritage preserved: Multiple retention systems maintained façade stability across varying structural conditionns
- Infrastructure protected: London Underground assets including station entrance and shafts preserved, maintaining uninterrupted operation
- Contractor confidence: Keltbray executed demolition with certainty that temporary works protected critical infrastructure
- Programme maintained: 3D coordination eliminated clashes between temporary and permanent works
- Efficient construction: Structural forms adapted to local constraints including live services.