One New Change opens its doors

With around 60 stores spanning three floors, it will be one of the largest shopping centres in central London.

The three-acre City development has been designed by French architect Jean Nouvel who won a 2003 competition run by property developer Land Securities for the project.

For One New Change - his first UK building - Nouvel has come up with two twisted blocks with a public path separating them, with public viewing platforms at the top of the building.

All the retail units are fully let and include retailers Marks and Spencer, fashion brands Banana Republic, H&M, Topshop and All Saints, as well as cafes and restaurants.

Also featured is a new concept restaurant, Barbecoa, from Jamie Oliver and Adam Perry-Lang who are also opening a butcher's shop and a takeaway.

David Archerley-Symes, retail director at Land Securities, said: "We have brought in some great brands that can be enjoyed in a fantastic environment - bringing the best of the West End to the financial district.

"Huge retailers such as Topshop and M&S are perfect for the demographic of those who will shop here in the week and bring in others to the area at the weekends.

"There are some great places to shop in the City, but no concentrated shopping area where the cash rich but time poor can shop for this huge variety of brands in a beautiful setting.

"Around 300,000 people work in the area so we hope the brands and shopping experience will be a big draw for them. We have a lot of mid-range priced food outlets too that will cater for all, such as families who come over from the South Bank on a Saturday."

Sustainability has been central in the design of the development with the use of renewable sources and maximising its energy efficiency through the use of large-scale geothermal heating technology. Drilling to a depth of 150 metres, Land Securities has installed a ground source energy system which is the largest commercial application of the technology in Europe.

The exterior skin of the building has been made from pioneering glass coated solar control glazing and green roofs aim to encourage biodiversity.

To celebrate the launch there will be an official ribbon cutting at 12pm today and a free gig from the Hoosiers.

One New Change, EC4M 9AF, DLR: Bank, Tube: St Paul's or Mansion House, onenewchange.com