March 2018 signalled the start of a phased opening of the 68,748 sq m expansion which saw more than 90 new shops, cafes, restaurants and leisure outlets open throughout 2018 taking Westfield London to 241,547 sq m, making it the largest shopping centre in Europe.
The transformation
The Westfield London Phase 2 project was a key component of the regeneration of the White City Development area, encompassing the development of the BBC Development on Wood Lane and the Imperial College masterplan to the north. Phase 2 was more than just an opportunity for the Westfield Group to anchor itself as the heart of the White City development, though. It also symbolised an evolution of Westfield, encapsulating the ambitious and continually developing ethos that has kept it at the forefront of retail.
Collaboration and evolution of the public realm
Applied Landscape Design landscape architects were responsible for the provision of the full range of landscape architectural services, working alongside other consultants to ensure coordination on complex items from concept design studies and visuals for client approval through to on-going detailed construction drawings and at present site supervision. Challenges included designing levels and build ups which responded to podium structures and Transport for London tunnels, and dealing with complex retail and residential building interfaces.
Making the right choice
The scheme features a series of large public open spaces designed to cater for a range of events. These key public squares are linked via attractive streetscapes featuring contemporary raised planters, mature trees and high-quality street furniture elements. Collaboration with Hardscape around paving material choice was key in choosing the right materials, both in colour and durability to complement the surroundings and accommodate huge anticipated footfall especially around Westfield Square. A mix of granites that included Yellow Rock, Magma, Royal White, Pink Pearl, Heron Grey and Kobra paving with additional European Yellow Real granite walling was used to create a striking area around the scheme.
The story so far
Westfield London has been a real force for change. Since the original centre opened in 2008, it has weathered recession, helped to reshape London’s retail landscape, rejuvenated W12, set new standards in the way retailers sell their products and changed the way we shop. Westfield London acts as a beacon for flagship stores and redefines the retail experience.
Alongside the flourishing retail business, and the £1bn turnover it now produces, Westfield London has had a transformative effect on the west London economy by creating jobs, footfall, tourism and attracting further investment to W12 from top property investors to world-class institutions such as Imperial College London.
Its presence has also dramatically changed and improved the public transport system in west London creating beautiful and better-connected spaces both inside and outside the centre that benefit retailers, shoppers and the community.
With its latest expansion, Westfield London has expanded its vision for the centre and contribution to the area.
Client: Westfield UK; Landscape Architects: Applied Landscape Design; Paving materials supplier: Hardscape
