Between 1992 and 2022 the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) had its headquarters at One Exchange Square in the City of London, next to Liverpool Street Station.
The twelve-storey building it occupied there was light and open inside, blending modern architecture and classical proportions. Its innovative design - for its time - also ensured that the property was easily maintained and met energy-saving requirements.
Background
At the time of its inauguration in April 1991 the EBRD spent many months searching for a permanent headquarters building. It was essential to find a base in keeping with the Bank’s image: modern, forward-looking, efficient.
It had to be sufficiently large and flexible to allow for expansion and space planning over several years. It had to satisfy the commuting needs of staff and become an exciting and attractive place to work.
Before moving into One Exchange Square in 1992, the EBRD was temporarily located at 6 Broadgate (August 1990-February 1991) and then 122 Leadenhall, which was badly damaged in April 1992 by a bomb at the Baltic Exchange in St Mary Axe.
Art
The EBRD's- former headquarters used to house several art works in keeping with its international character. Outside the Board Room stood a wooden articulated winged horse created by Christian Renonciat, which has now been moved to the new headquarters at Five Bank Street in Canary Wharf. Other works included tributes to Leonardo da Vinci and Nicolas Copernicus. A large metal sphere in the Bishopsgate reception area symbolises a world without frontiers.
