The extensive refurbishment of 55 Baker Street secures planning permission

Planning approval has been granted by Westminster Council for the retrofit of 55 Baker Street, marking the next chapter in the long evolution of this landmark building in the heart of Marylebone.

Originally built in the 1950s as the headquarters for Marks & Spencer, 55 Baker Street has continued to evolve over time, shifting from a single-use office building into a mixed-use development with a diverse offering. The latest proposals by Make Architects for London and Regional Properties, build on this legacy and strengthen the building’s role within the wider community with new high-quality workspace and activated frontage with new retail offering.

The proposals retain the glazed threshold that links the existing wing blocks together and shapes the seven-storey atrium that defines a dramatic arrival experience to the building.

Gillespies is delivering the landscape design for the project, with a focus on introducing nature to every level of the building. The proposals include a new planted arrival courtyard, a rear courtyard garden and a series of terraces on levels 6, 7, 8 and 9. These outdoor terraces feature layered, drought-tolerant and pollinator-friendly planting with seating and quiet areas, offering opportunities for tenants to spend more time outdoors and amongst nature. At roof level, a richly planted meadow habitat of native and non-native species will support ecology and provide year-round interest.

The ground level landscape takes its cues from the gentle movement of water, with curved pathways and planters shaping a calm and flowing sequence of spaces that encourage moments for pause and social interaction. The atrium arrival courtyard sets an inviting tone with a temperate planting palette of tree ferns, lush foliage and natural stone, while the sheltered rear courtyard adopts a woodland character, using multi-stem trees and textured underplanting to create shade, seasonal change and a restful place to pause.