First designed by British architectural firm RMJM, the project was then continued by Gorproject (2011–2017) under the main contractor, Turkish company Rönesans Holding.

[11] In December 2006 UNESCO World Heritage Centre Director Francesco Bandarin reminded Russia about its obligations to preserve it and expressed concern over the project.

In 2007, the World Monuments Fund placed the historic skyline of St. Petersburg on its 2008 Watch List of 100 Most Endangered Sites due to the potential construction of the building.

[12] Due to this sizeable backlash on the original proposition, the Okhta Center, which had been planned by Gazprom to be in front of Smolny Cathedral, was moved to Lakhta.

[14] The permit for construction of the first stage of Lakhta Center, which included the skyscraper and stylobate, was obtained on 17 August 2012.

The main contractor for the construction of Lakhta Center, Rönesans Holding, was selected on 22 April 2014.

In order to prevent complete icing up of the tower's spire, engineers changed glassing to metal gauze.

Glass at high floors will be heated to prevent ice accumulation, ensuring good visibility.

[31] In order to provide Lakhta Center and adjoining areas with electricity without imposing any extra burden on existing infrastructure, a new standalone power substation will be constructed.

As of 2023, a small yacht club has been demolished on the site of Lakhta Center II and construction is rumored to begin in 2024.