Gun Wharf has been designed to meet the needs of the local area and population. Architect Stock Woolstencroft consulted with the local community and the planning department at the London borough of Tower Hamlets to inform the design and mix of homes for this housing and regeneration scheme for Durkan Homes. The mixed use, mixed tenure scheme includes a range of homes from studio apartments through to five-bedroom houses, as well as 110 square metres of commercial space. The site beside the Hertford Union Canal is within an established residential area and is currently occupied by light industrial buildings. Gun Wharf’s design takes its lead from locally listed warehouse buildings to the east of the site, being a contemporary take on the warehouse. There are 121 homes in five blocks, each block having a distinct character but sitting comfortably within the wider context. The character comes from the simple modern lines of the blocks, combined with a palette of materials that both complements the context buildings and visually links and acknowledges the transition to the softer edge of an adjacent park. The design incorporates generous windows and balcony space as well as a pleasant central courtyard, and turns a narrow lane running alongside the site to the canal into a more spacious and lively route. Car parking is provided in the basement, reducing the impact of cars on the public areas and allowing pedestrians and cyclists to take priority. The scheme has been designed in accordance with the principles of sustainable design and construction. |
