Liverpool's Tallest Ever Building: 70-Storey Waterfront Tower Design Unveiled
Groundbreaking designs for a monumental 70-storey tower on Liverpool's iconic waterfront have been officially revealed, marking a significant milestone for the city's skyline. This ambitious structure, designed by the renowned architectural firm SimpsonHaugh, is poised to become the tallest building in Liverpool's history, forming the centrepiece of the expansive £1 billion Kings development project.
A New Landmark for the Waterfront
The tower, a collaborative venture between Davos Property Developments Limited and Beetham Davos Ltd, was showcased at the prestigious MIPIM international property trade fair during a private event for investors and end-users. This revelation follows the recent approval by Liverpool Council for the scheme's first tower, a 28-storey building named No. 1 Kings, setting the stage for this even more impressive addition.
The proposed tower will feature a luxurious five-star hotel occupying the first 23 floors, offering 212 high-specification rooms. Above the hotel, the building will house 563 luxury residences managed by the hotel operator, creating a seamless blend of hospitality and high-end living. Guest and resident amenities are set to include multiple bars, restaurants, state-of-the-art gymnasiums, banqueting and meeting facilities, and an exclusive rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
Part of a Larger Vision: The Kings Development
This tower is just one component of a larger masterplan for the site, which anticipates a total of ten buildings. The emerging masterplan will undergo public consultation later this spring, with a planning submission expected in late summer. The hybrid application will seek detailed consent for layout and site services, along with outline consent for each building plot.
The comprehensive Kings development is set to include not only residential towers and two hotels but also Grade A offices, a new arts venue, shared workspace for start-ups and tech businesses, and a diverse range of food and beverage outlets. This mixed-use approach aims to create a vibrant, sustainable community on the waterfront.
Confidence in Liverpool's Future
Hugh Frost, chairman of Beetham Davos, expressed strong confidence in the project and Liverpool's growth. "This will be the scheme's signature building and is the ultimate expression of our confidence in Liverpool and the council's backing for our ambition," he stated. Frost noted that discussions are "well underway" with a global hotel brand to occupy the entire building, highlighting their shared view of Liverpool as an outward-looking and international city.
In total, the building will provide 924,000 square feet of space, making it the second largest building by floor space in Liverpool, surpassed only by the famous Tobacco Warehouse. Ian Simpson of SimpsonHaugh described the design as "a landmark intervention for Britain's most dramatic waterfront skyline," rooted in the city's architectural vernacular and maritime history while offering a contemporary expression.
Optimising Public Realm and Views
Simpson elaborated on the design philosophy, stating, "The tower's setting optimises the high-quality public realm around it, whilst the soft corners maximise the panoramic views in every direction. I wanted to deliver a building that not only sat well with its neighbours but also reflects the ambition of the city." This approach ensures the tower integrates harmoniously with its surroundings while standing as a symbol of Liverpool's progressive vision.
The project builds on recent momentum, including last month's approval by Liverpool Council planners for a 28-storey tower in the city centre. Beetham has also partnered with KEIE, part of the TJ Morris group that owns Home Bargains, to acquire the former King Edward industrial estate on Gibraltar Row, further expanding their footprint in Liverpool.
Cllr Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool Council, praised the development, calling it "one of the most significant and ambitious projects I believe our city will see this century." This endorsement underscores the project's potential to transform Liverpool's urban landscape and boost its economic and cultural profile on a global scale.
