Modern Addition to Historic Docks

26.04.21

Abode2 looks around the newly unveiled Saffron Wharf, a new collection of homes - designed by renowned architects Patel Taylor and heralding to the docks’ heritage – forming part of a vibrant new community.

Proud to be a part of historic Wapping, London Dock is one of the most prominent Central London developments, offering a variety of residential and commercial property as well as open public spaces. Delivered by St George – part of the Berkeley Group – and designed by renowned architects Patel Taylor, London Dock has been created to honour its history in every detail. Since first launching, the 15-acre mixed use development has gone from strength to strength, with many Londoners choosing to call this part of Wapping home.

Moments from the Tower of London and the River Thames itself, London Dock expertly weaves the city’s history with modern-day luxuries. It has a grand history: the docks, first open in 1805, historically accommodated up to 500 ships and over 200,000 tonnes of goods, and once posed as Britain’s gateway to both the New and Old Worlds.

Saffron Wharf will be the next chapter of this dynamic new neighbourhood of 1,800 homes. Playing on the maritime and trading history of the area, the chapter typifies just what happens when old and new luxuries combine.

The backdrop of several Dickens novels – and with the essence of spices, coffee and cocoa – the St George and Patel Taylor teams have brought this historical piece of London back to life. Today, it is alive not with the sounds of traders and merchants, but of those who live, work and play there.

Launching in April, Saffron Wharf takes its name and inspiration from one of the most opulent products traded at the docks.

Saffron Wharf stands at a striking 18 storeys, and has been designed to ensure that every home has its own private balcony where residents can take in vistas of boulevards, courtyard gardens, Canary Wharf or the City.

But the real beauty starts at your front door, where modern-day comforts are seamlessly blended with historical homages. From basket-weave patterned timber flooring, to floor-to-ceiling windows; from fluted kitchen cabinets, to bronze splashbacks and stone worktops; from Miele integrated kitchen appliances and brushed black metalware. The interiors exemplify modern luxury with a unique twist.

Within the onsite marketing suite, you’ll find three brand new, beautifully designed show apartments, each with their own personality and nod to the local area. The Fenchurch, a luxurious three-bedroom show apartment, was appointed to the celebrated interior designer Atellior.

Una Barac, Executive Director at Atellior, describes the inspiration: “We wanted to pay homage to London Dock’s authentic and colourful character within The Fenchurch. Through a bold yet sophisticated interior design, we’ve explored statement colours that reference the art, culture and places around us. We’ve also used geometric lines and bespoke joinery that softly evoke the shapes and architecture of the East Banks along the River Thames.

“But most of all, we wanted the design to be a real showcase of everything saffron stands for: luxury, history, richness. To do this, we’ve used ochre and rich amber tones throughout the home, as well as carrying the soft scent of saffron through the rooms. The effect is a truly harmonious experience.”

With the local buzz of trade, industry, art and culture celebrated at every turn, the show home is a masterpiece worthy of the place it represents.

The detail of exploration, lifestyle and culture is also carried through outside of the homes. As Marcus Blake, Managing Director at St George City, describes, retaining the historic liveliness of this trading place was central to the London Dock vision: “We wanted to create an opportunity to become part of an evolving and thriving neighbourhood that still retains much of its rich maritime and trading heritage.

“London Dock provides an impressive variety of amenities, from independent brands, striking listed workspaces within the Pennington Street Warehouse, state-of-the-art fitness facilities and beautifully designed public areas, all within walking distance of both The Thames, Tower of London and the buzz of the City.”

Alongside Saffron Wharf, the 300 metre long, Grade II listed Pennington Street Warehouse is being refurbished to create inspirational spaces – brought to life by exposed brick walls and archways, light-flooded spaces, and high ceilings.

Around Pennington Quay Walk and central piazza, Gauging Square, new bars and eateries are waiting for discovery. Champagne Route, an artisan champagne bar, and 9Round, a boutique boxing gym, sit within Gauging Square, with more exciting new tenants in the pipeline. The water feature within Gauging Square, for instance, is a place of reflection – inspired by the Miroir d’eau at the Place de le Bourse.

Residents of Saffron Wharf additionally benefit from an impressive range of private facilities: a state-of-the-art gym, a heated pool, a sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, squash court, cinema room, virtual golf suite, and a 24-hour concierge. All have been designed to provide the best in modern living and convenience and acknowledging the importance of this, with residents spending time at home, now more than ever.

Only a short walk from Tower Hill and Aldgate – and soon to be connected to the Elizabeth Line via Whitechapel – these historical docks have been put firmly back on the London map. As it was in its trading heyday, London Dock is once again a hub of city activity. It is also now a vibrant place to call home.