Family Life in Canary

Officially opening its doors in February 2020, 10 George Street welcomed the first family on its first day of full operation. Opting for a two-bed apartment, Sebastian and his partner Daniela, along with their three-year-old daughter, could have taken the traditional route and settled in one of London’s many leafy suburbs, however, they wanted to embrace inner city life and put down roots in Canary Wharf’s new district, Wood Wharf.

Discussing how the family came to rent at Vertus’s first Build-to-Rent development, Sebastian, Director of a Marketing company in the West End, said: “My partner was shopping in Jubilee Place Mall and came across a stand for Vertus and 10 George Street. She got talking to the team and was impressed with their offering and all of the amenities, so we set up a tour and upon viewing decided to take the plunge to embrace life in the city as a young family.”

Previously residing in West London, the family were regular visitors to Canary Wharf and watched the evolution of the Estate before settling on the decision to make it their home. Sebastian said: “We have lived in London for eight years and when we first moved here from Germany Canary Wharf was relatively quiet, but we always liked its 'big city' environment and the rustic nature of the docks. Through the years we have kept coming back and seen the area evolve, becoming busier and more vibrant.

“We moved in at the perfect time, there is so much to do, but there is also a lot close by that is easy to get to, we can get anywhere in London in no time at all. Now I do the reverse commute into the West End, which may seem strange, but I prefer the balance of living here and travelling into central, rather than the other way around.”

Once complete Wood Wharf will provide an abundance of new homes, as well as over nine yet acres of public spaces, gardens and parks, plus over 350,000 sq.ft. of retail space. Amongst this will sit a lively high street, boutique stores and restaurants, public art, a fitness trail, doctor’s surgery and a brand new two-form entry primary school, providing a mixture of amenities and services to suit a diverse range of residents.

Whilst being just a short distance from some of East London’s best regarded green spaces, there is also a brand-new boulevard located directly outside 10 George Street providing a unique waterside location. Situated within the public space is a children’s playground and outdoor gymnasium alongside feature landscaping and seating areas.

Sebastian added: “The new boardwalk has recently opened and is a fantastic space to get out and enjoy the fresh air by the water or for our daughter to enjoy time to play. There is something special about being able to come down from our apartment and walk along the water or to take a moment on one of the benches.”

Discussing what life was like during lockdown at 10 George Street, Sebastian said: “I think lockdown was a challenge for everyone, but especially for children. Thankfully, there are plenty of places to walk around nearby and the virtual events put on by the in-house team were excellent and a real mood-lifter. We were regulars at the virtual events and it certainly helped to build the community spirit and for us to get to know our neighbours.

“Everyone here is wonderful and we have a residents’ Whatsapp group, which we are using to arrange socially distanced get togethers. The other residents and staff have been great with us and very accommodating and helpful, we feel welcomed and included as a family.”

The family currently lease a two-bedroom apartment, designed in an open-play layout to accentuate natural light throughout, with high spec appliances and first class finishing. Apartments are fully furnished by Camerich and residents have autonomy over interior decorations, making the apartments feel like home.

“Apartment living isn’t for every family, but we enjoy it. There is also the added benefit of being able to head down to the amenity floor if we ever want a change of scenery or to enjoy a coffee on the terrace.”

Since the lifting of lockdown, Club Vertus has reopened its exceptional offering of high-quality amenity spaces at 10 George Street by introducing stringent social-distancing measures. Residences will once again have access to the relaxing residents lounge, as well as expansive terrace overlooking South Dock, private bookable dining space, self-service bar area (stocked by Canary Wharf’s Humble Grape) and a private gym studio, operated by wellness experts Antidote.

Sebastian finished: "We are happy here and delighted this is our home. We hold ambitions to one day return to Germany, but for the time being we hope 10 George Street and Wood Wharf hold a happy future for us.”

10 George Street has been designed by GRID Architects, comprising 327 apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments, with prices starting from £2,080 per calendar month. A dedicated show floor is available for viewings by appointment only. For more information visit www.thisisvertus.com or contact leasing@thisisvertus.com