A wellness-focused mega development in London has received full planning consent, with the scheme expected on-site this year and a completion date of 2030.

The Round, in Southwark, London, has been designed by architects Foster + Partners for global real estate developer Hines.

The £2bn (US$2.6bn, €2.3bn) development will cover 1 million sq ft (92,903 sq m) and include wellness features designed to enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of both residents and visitors.

Included are two residential skyscrapers and a third for ‘wellbeing-led’ office space for 5,000 people over 45-floors.

A 300-seat auditorium, accessible cultural space and a public plaza will host events and cultural programming, including concerts and talks, with retailing and wellness amenities rounding out the offering.

Here Jasmine Dillon, managing director, head of marketing, community and experience at Hines, talks to CLADmag about the mega scheme.

What is the business strategy for the Round? 
To lead a transformative shift in real estate by pioneering a wellness-centric, mixed-use development that sets new global standards for wellbeing, sustainability and user experience.

Why is providing spa and wellness spaces important? 
We spend most of our time at home or work; those spaces should actively support our wellbeing. That’s why the spa and wellness facilities are not luxury add-ons, but foundational elements of the development. The design of these spaces is backed by science and integrated into the DNA of the Round through our data-driven Wellbeing Matrix, which we’ve developed with wellness experts, Pillar Wellbeing. 

How will the public spaces support wellness? 
These spaces will offer an immersive environment that encourages physical activity, fosters social connection and supports mental wellbeing.

The public realm will feature outdoor trim trails, cycling and jogging routes, and facilities for group classes and individual workouts. A gamification app will be introduced to reward regular movement.

A range of initiatives will combat loneliness and nurture community. Public spaces will host social games such as padel, boules, and table tennis, as well as creative and educational programming.

Links with local NGOs and charities and a community garden will further anchor the Round in its local context, while creating inclusive, emotionally-rich environments.

What can you share about the interior design? 
We’re in the process of reviewing the interior design approach – any partners will align with our wider vision. The design will prioritise natural materials, biophilic elements and carefully considered light levels. All design work will be developed with the necessary benchmarks in mind to support our goal of achieving WELL Gold and Nabers certifications, ensuring high standards in sustainability and indoor environmental quality.