BT Tower Transformation Moves Forward with Plans for 400-Room Hotel

US hotel group MCR is proposing a major refurbishment of the Grade II-listed Fitzrovia landmark, its podium buildings and the adjoining Howland Building. The scheme will retain approximately 78% of the existing structures by volume, placing adaptive reuse at the centre of the development.

Orms Architects is leading the design, having taken over from Heatherwick Studio following MCR’s £275m acquisition of the tower from BT Group in 2024.

The proposed hotel will occupy levels seven to 23 of the tower, with new access and fire-safety measures incorporated into the existing structure. At the top of the building, the former revolving restaurant and viewing area will be restored and reopened as a public 360-degree visitor attraction.

The wider scheme will introduce additional hotel accommodation, restaurants, bars, retail and event spaces within the podium buildings, alongside a new rooftop swimming pool. A new public square and pedestrian routes are also planned at ground level.

The project will retain the tower’s main concrete structure, while replacing the façade to improve environmental performance while maintaining the building’s distinctive appearance.

Construction is targeted to begin in 2029, with the hotel expected to open in 2033.

The redevelopment represents a major example of retrofit-led construction in London, demonstrating how an iconic existing structure can be adapted for a new use while retaining its architectural identity and reducing the need for wholesale demolition and rebuilding.

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