AXA Real Estate Investment Managers (AXA Real Estate) has announced that is starting construction of the first phase of Assembly London.

The development is a mixed-use urban campus comprising four buildings totalling 220,000 sqft on the site of the former Harper Collins offices at 77 Fulham Palace Road, London.

Phase one of the project comprises the development of two new buildings, The Foundry and 1 Smith's Square, which between them will deliver 150,000 sqft of new office space and 20,000 sqft of retail and restaurant space plus the re-landscaping of the public realm.

Harry Badham, Head of UK Development at AXA Real Estate, said: "The rebirth of this district as Assembly London will provide one of the best and most interesting working environments in central London. The growth of rents in many central London locations have begun to price out occupiers, and we believe many of these businesses will start to look for new locations where they can find value, whilst still wanting accessibility for staff and a great working environment. We believe that Assembly London, with its extensive landscaping, modern and varied office spaces together with a range of retail, restaurants and amenities, provides a highly appealing option, at just 15 minutes from the core West End."

AXA Real Estate is working with development manager, Bell Hammer, on The Foundry which will comprise 115,000 sqft, it is situated at the centre of the estate and will be the largest building on the campus. It offers 20,000 sqft of open floors set around a large central atrium, linked by a feature staircase to access a 5,000 sqft landscaped roof terrace.

1 Smith's Square will be a mixed-use building incorporating a series of double height retail and restaurant units, as well as 35,000 sqft of office space.

Construction, which is not dependent on securing a pre-let, is due to commence this shortly, following the recent grant of planning permission for both buildings in the first phase, with completion expected by mid-2016.