Major regeneration project transforms a former storage facility into a new high-quality neighbourhood. It leads the way for the wider regeneration of Whitechapel, with its design and use of materials creating a fitting and timeless new addition to an established neighbourhood well known for its heritage, street market, vibrant community, and culture.
Straddling two nearby conservation areas, the scheme is set across three building plots with one-third of the site dedicated to a new public realm focusing on connectivity and permeability, introducing new pedestrianised streets and squares. The buildings vary from terraces of townhouses along the cobbled Raven Row, courtyard blocks of up to eight storeys and two towers stepping up to 25 storeys.
The use of three distinct brick types and reconstituted stone creates strong identities for the street frontages facing the existing context, while the addition of two glass and aluminium towers enhances the future townscape of Whitechapel.
The scheme has 704 new homes including a large proportion of family homes – 184 of which will be affordable housing. 3,500 sq.m of flexible office space for SMEs and café space occupying the ground floor which animates the surrounding streets, public squares and landscaped walking routes.
Our approach to urban design integrates several key principles into the scheme such as pedestrian routes linking into surrounding streets and encouraging movement through the site – visual connectivity through the site. As a result, the scheme addresses surrounding streets with a new low-rise streetscape, creating an attractive open space within the heart of the development and positioning the tallest elements setback within the site to minimise its impact on the surrounding context.
Client L&Q/Mount Anvil
Location Whitechapel, E1
Scope 704 new homes and 3,500sqm of commercial space including flexible office space for SMEs, shops, a gym and a cafe
Planning Authority LB Tower Hamlets
Awards 2017 Planning Awards – Best Housing Scheme, Shortlisted | 2017 First Time Buyer Awards – Best Regeneration Scheme , Shortlisted