King's Cross: The Making of a Masterplan

Published by Lund Humphries, King’s Cross: The Making of a Masterplan provides a complete account of the evolution of King's Cross as one of the most significant and successful urban regeneration projects of today. This Stirling prize shortlisted project is subject of considerable international interest, attracting the attention of planners, politicians and urban designers both at home and abroad who look to King’s Cross as an exemplar of stitching a forgotten piece of land back into the fabric of a global city.

Beginning with King's Cross’s rich and complex history, this book details the journey of bringing back to life a remarkable heritage site. From the initial concept of the masterplan and the ten guiding principles of the ‘human city’ through the complex negotiations regarding planning, conservation and financing; to the creation of the public spaces and landscapes and selection of the building architects which, together with the renovation of historical buildings, has created King's Cross’s unique and successful character. Illustrated with over 400 historic photos and maps, drawings and diagrams and photography of the place today.

From the perspectives of developer and designers, the four authors show how the masterplan emerges from the intrinsic patterns and found structures of King’s Cross, achieving a bold reinvention at a scale rarely seen.