Plans have been submitted for a new London headquarters for the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), the research organisation founded by billionaire Larry Ellison.
Building understands that Sir Robert McAlpine has won the contract at 11–12 St James’s Square in Piccadilly, beating rival bidder Multiplex. The site comprises Grade II and Grade II* listed buildings alongside a 1990 rear extension.
Foster & Partners has designed the scheme, which involves retrofitting the historic structures while demolishing the more recent rear extension. The contract, described as “very high spec,” is reported to be worth around £120m. McLaren and Mace were also considered for the project, with McLaren failing to make the final shortlist.
Planned works include the installation of new lifts, showers, and cycle storage, new glazed façades and terraces, and the reinstatement of a historic garden at ground level.
Other contributors to the project, submitted to Westminster City Council earlier this month, include development manager Edit, planning consultant Avison Young, heritage consultant Donald Insall Associates, and project manager Ridge.
Larry Ellison, co-founder of US tech giant Oracle Corporation, is the world’s fifth wealthiest individual, with a net worth of $250bn (£186bn), according to Bloomberg. EIT, a multidisciplinary science institute, is also leading a £300m science research facility in Oxford, designed by Foster & Partners with Laing O’Rourke delivering the first phase.
