Finsbury Dials: The building that built a building

In the heart of London’s financial district, a 1980s office building, 20 Finsbury Dials, is undergoing a remarkable metamorphosis. Led by architects Stiff + Trevillion, this “brown to green” transformation isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a pioneering effort in sustainable renovation.

With energy efficiency and carbon reduction as top priorities of clients Goldman Sachs and Greycoat, the project embraced a ‘fabric first’ approach. But it was the fate of the building’s striking pink granite façade that sparked a truly innovative solution.

Rather than send tons of granite to landfill, the architects turned to Solus’ Creative Director, Sam Frith, who envisioned a way to give the material a second life.

Collaborating with a UK terrazzo manufacturer, Sam developed an innovative terrazzo that incorporates demolition waste as aggregate. This groundbreaking product allowed the Finsbury Dials granite to be reborn as stunning surfaces, breathing new life into the building and reducing its environmental impact.

Watch the idea come to life. Video shot and produced by Superbeam, commissioned by Greycoat.