Thomson Reuters

What if I told you this seemingly ordinary skyscraper, 30 South Colonnade, once pulsed with the energy of global news? This very building, now known as YY London, was the European headquarters of Thomson Reuters. Thomson Reuters, a name synonymous with news and information, chose this spot in Canary Wharf as its European hub. The original structure, designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox, was completed in 1991. Reuters, even before merging with Thomson Corporation in 2008, had already established a rich history. Founded in London in 1851 by Paul Julius Reuter, the company began by transmitting stock market quotations. Imagine, in 1865, Reuters was the first to report Lincoln’s assassination to Europe. This building itself has witnessed a fascinating transformation. When Reuters moved in, the building underwent a significant refurbishment by Perkins + Will. A massive 100-meter-long ticker was installed, wrapping around the building and displaying news and stock prices. This iconic feature became a recognizable symbol in Canary Wharf. Then, in 2019, Oaktree Capital Management and Quadrant Estates acquired the building, leading to another major renovation in 2023. Buckley Gray Yeoman architects added three floors and redesigned the façade, earning the building BREEAM Outstanding and WELL Platinum ESG certifications. The original curved frontage and prominent location opposite the Jubilee Line station, key features of 30 South Colonnade, now blend seamlessly with the modern, sustainable design of YY London. So, as you stand here, consider the layers of history embedded within this structure. From its early days as a home for London Underground, to its time as a hub for global news, 30 South Colonnade, now YY London, stands as a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of Canary Wharf.