The Hunger Artist

The Flower Club prepares launch at Wood Wharf’s Harbord Square

Selling cut flowers, plants and gifts, the Canary Wharf shop will also offer workshops and guidance

Florist and founder of The Flower Club, Julia Knyazevich - image by Jon Massey
Florist and founder of The Flower Club, Julia Knyazevich – image by Jon Massey

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“My grandma told me recently that she wasn’t surprised I was starting this business, because I grew up with flowers all around me,” said Julia Knyazevich.

“As a child I lived with her in a little village in the mountains in Ukraine.

“She had a big garden where she’d plant lots of different flowers and I loved it.”

A major change in Julia’s life came at the age of 16 when, speaking no English, she travelled across the sea to join her mother in the UK.

Adapting to her new environment, she studied fashion buying and worked with major brands such as Dior and Tommy Hilfiger before embarking on a career with luxury lifestyle management company Quintessentially.

Now she’s decided to transform a passion into a business.

“After the pandemic, I spent time travelling, including a long period in Thailand,” said the West India Quay resident.

“I also studied floristry. It’s a discipline that’s always developing, with new trends constantly emerging and I had the idea to start a business.

“While travelling, I’d organised a big birthday party for my husband in Italy – I was looking for a company to help with that, but I couldn’t find one so I decided to do it myself. 

“I really enjoyed the process of finding all the decorations and flowers for the long tables and creating the event.

“My husband suggested I should start my own business, so I have.”

The Flower Club is set to open this spring in Canary Wharf - image by The Flower Club
The Flower Club is set to open this spring in Canary Wharf – image by The Flower Club

a clutch of independent businesses

The Flower Club is one of a clutch of independent businesses that are opening at 8 Harbord Square over the coming weeks.

Wayne Hairdresser Salon opened its doors this month, with nail bar Awe London also coming soon.

Julia’s venture will sell fresh cut flowers and decorative items as well as some plants.

Her brand is inspired not only by the flowers in her grandma’s garden, but also by one of her favourite places in London.

“I absolutely love Petersham Nurseries in Richmond,” said Julia, who moved to the Canary Wharf area in May. 

“When I visit the nurseries, I never want to leave. It’s not for everyone because some people prefer classic bouquets to the more unusual arrangements and installations they create.

“For The Flower Club – a name inspired by Thai cafe The Coffee Club I used to visit while living there – my preference is to use a technique that involves positioning flowers in a bouquet to reflect the way they grow in the wild.

“The aim is to create something that looks natural rather than artificial and it’s better for the flowers because they last longer.

“When I do arrangements I like mixing flowers with fruit or vegetables. It might sound crazy to some people, but it’s something different.

“I also get a lot of inspiration from the Cotswolds. I love visiting the area every few months and looking in the flower shops.

“My aim for Canary Wharf is to bring something similar here.”

Julia has been inspired by her grandmother's garden and the work of Petersham Nurseries - image by The Flower Club
Julia has been inspired by her grandmother’s garden and the work of Petersham Nurseries – image by The Flower Club

building a dream with The Flower Club

Julia is starting small – working with one other florist and freelancers – but dreaming big.

Ultimately, her idea is to foster a community around her business by hosting workshops under the umbrella of The Flower Club.  

“I know this is just opening one little shop, but I have made a business plan,” said Julia. 

“I know it’s a big dream, but I’m working hard on the branding. We’re starting slowly, but I want to build that community and eventually teach other florists.

“I have an unusual style of floristry and I’d love to set up a franchise model, not just in the UK but in other countries too.

“This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. It’s been a journey getting to this point, but we’re almost there.

“Starting your own business lets you feel a kind of freedom compared with working for a company, but you also have to work on all aspects of the operation. 

“It’s stressful because you feel like you want to control everything, but to be successful you need to do that work and be aware of every part of the business.”

One of the key drivers for The Flower Club is a mission to lessen the environmental impact of floristry. 

“I try to source flowers direct from growers,” said Julia.

“There’s a wonderful farm in Surrey that I’m planning to work with this spring and summer and there’s another in Cornwall – it’s a long way, but they specialise in wild flowers, which I love.

“It’s better from a sustainability perspective to buy from UK growers because the flowers don’t travel so far and they don’t have to use chemicals to keep them fresh.

“It’s hard to say no to plastic wrapping completely, but The Flower Club is trying to minimise its use. I mainly use craft and tissue papers and biodegradeable products for my bouquets.

“For example, I use string to tie the stems together that’s made from natural materials.

“All of the bags we use in the shop will be paper too and the interior will be mostly decorated with wood and reclaimed furniture.

“It’s a small workspace, but it’s enough and it’s better to start from the ground up rather than take big risks.

“I’ve planned the layout and have made it as comfortable as possible both for workers and our customers.

“Having studied floristry, I know how to use the space professionally and it should be sufficient for our needs.

“I also want to use social media to educate people who want to know more about sourcing and also caring for flowers.

“It’s important to know how to treat the arrangements and all of my orders will have cards on how to properly care for the flowers.”

Prospective customers can find out more online - image by The Flower Club
Prospective customers can find out more online – image by The Flower Club

opening The Flower Club at 8 Harbord Square

While the 8 Harbord Square shop will sell fresh cut flowers and gifts, there will be two further strands to Julia’s business that emerge when she’s up and running.

“I’ll be hosting workshops for people to participate in, especially around events in the calendar,” she said.

“That might be wreath making at Christmas, for example, or creating Easter displays.

“We’ll also have a service for events, which I have a lot of experience doing.

“Clients who want something special for their tables will be able to order flower arrangements, but also tableware and decorations.

“We will be here to explore ideas and designs to make things really special.

“There are lots of options – I’m a big fan of Murano glass, for example – and we can work in private homes, private dining rooms or in restaurants depending on a client’s needs.”

key details: The Flower Club

The Flower Club is set to open  soon on the ground floor of 8 Harbord Square in Wood Wharf.

Visit the business’ website for updates or follow @theflowerclub_ldn on Insta.

Find out more about the shop here

This article is sponsored by Canary Wharf Group

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Southbank Place unveils final apartments to buy at Seven

The final part of Braeburn Estates’ riverside scheme offers 92 apartments for sale overlooking the London Eye, the water and the city beyond

An artist's impression of Southbank Place's Seven - image by Braeburn Estates
An artist’s impression of Southbank Place’s Seven – image by Braeburn Estates

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The opportunity to buy into Southbank Place is coming to a close.

With the rest of the central London development sold out, only a last act awaits with the forthcoming release of apartments in its final block.

Braeburn Estates, a joint venture between Qatari Diar and Canary Wharf Group, recently unveiled the first images of what that last building – Seven – will be like.

Set to complete and launch to the market in the second half of 2025, the block will house 92 homes, all facing the Thames and the north bank of the river beyond.

One, two, three and four-bedroom apartments will be available as well as penthouses. 

Designed by architects Stanton Williams, the properties feature open-plan design and come with a full complement of technological features. 

Interior schemes have been created by studio Albion Nord, although with prices starting at £3.85million, buyers are likely to want to put their own stamp on their surroundings.

The apartments all feature views of the river - image by Braeburn Estates
The apartments all feature views of the river – image by Braeburn Estates

creating Seven at Southbank Place

“We’ve always been passionate about the quality of the spaces we inhabit – how important the details and materials are for our wellbeing and quality of life,” said Stanton Williams principal director, Paul Williams. 

“Our aim is always to focus on those qualities of space, movement through space, how buildings unfold, how natural daylight enters, engages and transforms a building. 

“These are the fundamental elements of architecture and that is the main aim of the design for Seven.”

Buyers at the building will get access to the 5.25-acre development’s 17,000sq ft private health club that comes complete with a 25-metre swimming pool, a gym, workout rooms, relaxation pods, treatment rooms and a hair and beauty studio.

“Seven provides the final opportunity to own a piece of London’s iconic skyline at Southbank Place,” said Qatari Diar chief sales and marketing officer, Richard Oakes.

“It not only presents the final chance to live here, but also provides some of the finest apartments available at this landmark development. 

“There has been a fantastic response from the market during the initial off-plan sales period, with a number of sales and reservations, which we believe will only gain further momentum as we near completion.”

An artist's impression of Seven, the final phase of Southbank Place - image by Braeburn Estates
An artist’s impression of Seven, the final phase of Southbank Place – image by Braeburn Estates

central location

Located within easy walking distance of the Southbank Centre, Royal Festival Hall and the National Theatre, the development also benefits from the transport links of nearby Waterloo station including a direct Tube link to Canary Wharf. 

“The interior and exterior designs at Seven are exceptional, with large balconies offering sensational views and impressive open-plan interiors that make a real impression when walking through the door,” said Canary Wharf Group director of residential sales, Melanie Conway. 

“We look forward to working towards the full launch and welcoming prospective purchasers to secure their own piece of this iconic building.”

The properties feature open-plan design and private balconies – image by Braeburn Estates

key details: Seven at Southbank Place

Homes at Southbank Place’s Seven start at £3.85million. Each faces the Thames.

The development has been built by Braeburn Estates, a joint venture between Qatari Diar and Canary Wharf Group.

Call 020 7001 3600 for details or follow this link for more

Read more: Awe London to open its doors at 8 Harbord Square

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Wayne Hairdresser Salon set for Canary Wharf opening in March

Wayne Zukauskas is among a clutch of independent business owners to bring their activities to 8 Harbord Square at Wood Wharf

Wayne Zukauskas of Wayne Hairdresser Salon, soon to open in Canary Wharf - image Jon Massey
Wayne Zukauskas of Wayne Hairdresser Salon, soon to open in Canary Wharf – image Jon Massey

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“It was quite random that I came to London – I just stuck a pin in a map, although I did have friends here too,” said Wayne Zukauskas.

Originally from Lithuania, the east London resident had spent 11 years playing professional basketball before a back injury prompted a change in career. 

“The doctors said I had to stop – I could have continued my journey as a basketball coach but I wasn’t really interested if I wasn’t playing,” said Wayne.

“So I took a break for a year and three things came into my mind. Either to be a chef, a hairdresser or a DJ – I decided to try training as a stylist.

“Everyone, my friends and family, were shocked. I liked to do my own hair, but there wasn’t any particular reason for choosing that path – I just felt I wanted to do it. 

“I studied for around 12 months, which was intense – you pay more money on a course that length, but it’s way quicker than going to college.

“Then I worked a little bit before moving London – it was the right place because I wanted to learn the language – then everything started to happen career-wise. 

“Within a month or two, I was working – first in Notting Hill for a small independent salon and then for a bigger brand in London Bridge. I learnt a lot.

“My English got a lot better and I spent around five years there.”

An example of Wayne's work - image @waynehairdresser on Instagram
An example of Wayne’s work – image @waynehairdresser on Instagram

the drive of an entrepreneur

But Wayne began to think about the future and, bitten by the entrepreneurial bug, he started to do some research.

“I was getting very interested in the business side of things – reading books and talking to people to find out how it all worked,” he said.

“Then, once I started getting interested in that, I began looking for opportunities. 

“There was the chance to manage three salons in Zurich, but, at the last minute, I decided not to go to Switzerland.

“Instead I teamed up with a business partner here and we ran salons in Royal Wharf and Limehouse for nine years. 

“When my daughter was born, I decided it was time for a break because I wanted to be there for her and running a business can be stressful.

“As a family, we had a really nice year and a half,  travelled a lot with the baby – even though she won’t remember all the places she’s been.

“But I’m someone who needs challenges so we came back to London. I began talking to Canary Wharf Group about 8 Harbord Square. 

“I knew it was coming – I’ve always lived in east London – in Westferry, Limehouse, next to City Airport and now close to Excel – so I’m always around Canary Wharf.”

Wayne Hairdresser Salon is set to open its doors at 8 Harbord Square in March 2025 - image Jon Massey
Wayne Hairdresser Salon is set to open its doors at 8 Harbord Square in March 2025 – image Jon Massey

a new chapter: Wayne Hairdresser Salon

This brings us to the start of a new chapter for Wayne, as owner of one of the independent businesses that’s set to launch in Wood Wharf in the coming weeks and months.

Wayne Hairdresser Salon will open on March 15, 2025, offering a full complement of services for men and women as well as haircuts for children

“My idea was to create a boutique salon for this lovely area,” said Wayne.

“It will blend in with the New York style of 8 Harbord Square, with a modern look.

“We will have a dark brown, red and white colour scheme complete with a coffee bar inspired by a traditional British telephone box.

“In the future we’ll look at putting in a kids play area to keep them entertained while parents get their hair styled.

“We’ll be offering cuts for young ones too, which not every salon likes to do, but we love it.

“We’re expecting regular haircuts to be popular, as well as colour treatments such as highlights, balayage and ombre.

“I already have a client base in the area and we think we’ll mostly be serving the residential population, although workers in Canary Wharf and visitors to the area will be very welcome too.

“This will be a place that offers a luxury atmosphere and an experience to match – somewhere people will really enjoy coming.”

In fact, the salon will offer a comprehensive range of treatments and services drawing on Wayne’s 15 years in the business. 

Brands the salon will be working with include Oribe, Goldwell and K18.

The salon will be offering a full range of services and treatments - image @waynehairdresser on Instagram
The salon will be offering a full range of services and treatments – image @waynehairdresser on Instagram

quality over quantity

Wayne said: “I’ve recruited a really experienced team to deliver these services with a boutique feel.

“It’s all about quality rather than quantity. If a customer comes through the door, it has to be a good service and then, if they live locally, they will keep coming back.

“I’ve learnt a lot from my years running a business.

“With this opening, I want to take things easy, start slowly and see what happens. I hope the business will grow steadily and the team will expand.

“Then, perhaps, I’ll open more salons but we’ll see.

“What I’ve learned from running businesses is that it’s challenging and it can be an unhealthy balance. 

“Before, one of my salons was very large whereas this will be more boutique – somewhere that people will feel relaxed coming to and enjoying at a slower pace.

“The plan when I first came to London was only to stay for a few years – but I’m still here because the journey is going the way I wanted it to.

“I always had the idea to move somewhere hot with a beach, but you can always go on holidays. 

“In the end, wherever I go with my wife, we always end up missing London. It’s where my daughter was born and she will grow up here.

“Opening a business in Canary Wharf feels great. The look of the buildings and the people that live around here are the right fit for what I’m trying to do.”

8 Harbord Square is set to welcome several independent businesses in the near future including florist and gift shop The Flower Club and nail salon Awe London.

Drawn from east London, Canary Wharf Group is supporting them as they launch on the ground floor of the residential tower. 

key details: Wayne Hairdresser Salon

Wayne Hairdresser Salon is set to open its doors on March 15, 2025, at 8 Harbord Square. 

A full list of treatments and prices is available on the business’ website.

Wayne also offers business consulting services to help other entrepreneurs.

Find out more about the salon here

Read more: Awe London to open its doors at 8 Harbord Square

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Awe London set to open luxury nail salon at 8 Harbord Square

Kamden Monplaisir is set to bring her business to Canary Wharf, the realisation of a dream to launch a branch of her beauty brand on the estate

Awe London founder Kamden Monplaisir - image Jon Massey
Awe London founder Kamden Monplaisir – image Jon Massey

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“When I was a lot younger, I had an obsession with Canary Wharf,” said Kamden Monplaisir.

“Aged nine, my mum brought me to the estate, because she’d noticed I had a major interest in numbers, money and counting – maths was always my strongest subject in school.

“I was inspired by the suits and the culture – it felt like a different world when you stepped into it.

“As a child, I’d never seen anything like it.

“Later, I only applied for jobs I could get here”

Kamden, who grew up not far away in Bow, founded creative nail bar business Awe London in 2019.

Soon she’s set to expand her operation to 8 Harbord Square in Wood Wharf as one of a cohort of independent business launching in its commercial units over the coming weeks and months.

“When I was starting out, I used to work at Aquascutum in Canary Wharf, but the company went into administration,” she said. 

“That’s when I moved on to Burberry.

I have a degree in international finance and I was working for their corporate finance division.

“After pursuing that for about five years, I decided I wanted to start my own business – The Esther Academy – an organisation working with young women to support, inspire and nurture them in their future endeavours. 

“That continued until the pandemic hit and business died down. I already had other things going on creativity-wise and I started Awe London in 2019. 

“I’m also a mum and about to be again, which is a big pride and joy of mine and just as important as my entrepreneurial life.” 

The business Kamden’s running now was born out of need – a desire to offer a better service than what she’d experienced.

Nail art by Awe London - image by Awe London / @awelondon on Insta
Nail art by Awe London – image by Awe London / @awelondon on Insta

founding the brand

“I’ve always been obsessed with getting my nails done,” she said.

“But I felt disappointed by the salons I was going to compared with my expectations.

“I’d visited businesses in the West End – the prices were three times as much, but it was a different atmosphere and I wondered why that couldn’t be available in other places.

“When you go to a spa, you want to experience that ‘wow’ moment, but many nails salons in the UK were just about getting in and getting out – I wanted to change that.

“Our first branch was in South Woodford and we were there for about four years.

“It was a beautiful community to work in as a residential area.

“Then my ambitious side set me wondering how I was going to grow this business more, which had been quite difficult in such a small area.

“We were popular on social media and I noticed that a lot of my clients were coming from London for our services, so I packed up and moved to Shoreditch. 

“It was a tough decision because I knew we’d lose some clients but it was a great move and many of our customers travel in to see us there.

“The new location gave us more exposure and we were able to cater for tourists, commuters and residents.

“There was a much bigger footfall and more of a lively vibe and we’ve achieved what we wanted to, which is amazing.”

As thoughts of further expansion emerged, the stars aligned to bring Kamden’s twin obsessions – Canary Wharf and creative nails – together.

It made the decision to say yes to Canary Wharf Group’s team an easy one.

“I was contacted by them while they were looking out for small east London businesses that might be interested in a second location,” she said.

“It came at the perfect time.

“I’d built the team and the infrastructure and I had just started thinking about growth and that suggestion really tapped into my love for the Wharf.

“When I was considering areas, Canary Wharf had always seemed like a dream – when I walked through the malls, I always thought it would be great to be  here.

“Then, this new opportunity at 8 Harbord Square made that a bit more attainable so I pursued the opportunity and around seven months later we had the keys.”

8 Harbord Square is set to be home to a collection of independent businesses including Awe London – image by Jon Massey

the difference at Awe London

For Kamden and her team, success is all built on the customers experience – the key reason her clients keep coming back to indulge in Awe London’s extensive range of services.

“It’s about the care you get from our people,” said Kamden.

“If you come to us we’ll always aim to brighten up your day.

“At Canary Wharf, clients will come to Awe London, feel relaxed and enjoy lovely beverages – getting your nails done should never feel like a chore.

“Some customers get a treatment because they need to look their best for an event or to maintain their appearance, but here we also want them to enjoy the process.

“It is a luxury and we want people to feel they are having a good time while they are with us.

“One of the things I’ve fallen in love with about Canary Wharf as it has changed is the community aspect to the estate.

“There are opportunities to network and to meet loads of people. We’re offering a service, of course, but we also want to build our client base. 

“In our businesses, we have the opportunity to build a rapport with our customers and learn about their lives.

“In some cases we see them going from their first job, the next step in their career, marriage, a new house and beyond.

“That’s really lovely.

“I’m so excited for the future and what can come from this opening.

“The exposure we got from Shoreditch was good, but this will be a new level of opportunity for us.

“This kind of project to support small businesses is unusual.

“It’s tough for small companies to break through but being in an area alongside big brands and having the chance is great and I’m so grateful for it.

“We’re really looking forward to opening.”

While Awe London’s Canary Wharf branch will be an extension of Kamden’s brand, she said the new nail salon had been designed to have its own personality to reflect the area it would be operating in.

“I like each salon to look like and represent a bit of the place it’s in, so none of them are exactly the same,” she said.

“You’ll know it’s an Awe London salon, but I wanted the contemporary feel of Harbord Square to be present when people walk in.

“I saw the brickwork, the appearance of the apartments upstairs and thought: ‘this is me – modern, contemporary, with an industrial feel, but also with a bit of plush velvet, beautiful smells, flowers and the feminine touch.”


Nail art by Awe London - image by Awe London / @awelondon on Insta
Nail art by Awe London – image by Awe London / @awelondon on Insta

looking to the future

As for further expansion, Kamden has big plans and a model she feels is ready to grow.

“There can be a bit of apprehension when you expand – we’ll have double the number of staff with this opening, but I’m not afraid,” she said. 

“We’ve built really strong infrastructure in the business and I’m excited to work with new people.

“Running businesses isn’t how I thought it would be at all.

“I hoped I’d become rich, go on holiday every other month – all glitz and glamour. 

“I didn’t understand the magnitude of it or the hard work you need to do. 

“But I’ve got a great support system in place, a great family and I’m a woman of faith.

“That all helps manage the stress.

“I take time out for myself – you have to believe in balance if you don’t want it to completely take over your life. 

“If I could go back with some advice I’d tell myself to relax – to remember that I was built to do this and that I can get over any hurdle that comes my way and to have faith that the plans I’ve made will work out.

“In the future, I’d love to expand Awe London globally and partner up with people all over the world. You have to have passion to grow a boutique nail salon.

Nail art by Awe London - image by Awe London / @awelondon on Insta
Nail art by Awe London – image by Awe London / @awelondon on Insta

key details: Awe London

Awe London offers a wide range of manicure and pedicure services.

Follow the brand’s Instagram @awelondon or check its website for Canary Wharf opening details.

Canary Wharf Group is supporting a number of independent east London businesses to open in the commercial units at 8 Harbord Square on Wood Wharf.

Also confirmed are salon Wayne Hairdresser and florist and plant shop The Flower Club.

Discover more about the 8 Harbord Square project here

Read more: SO Resi’s Kevin Sims on the advantages of shared ownership

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8 Harbord Square prepares to welcome businesses to Wood Wharf

Canary Wharf building will see independent companies given space and support as neighbourhood opens up to visitors and residents

Canary Wharf Group senior retail leasing surveyor, George Chapman
Canary Wharf Group senior retail leasing surveyor, George Chapman

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Look to the east.

Over the coming weeks and months, Harbord Square – recently connected to the rest of Wood Wharf by the opening of the snowdrop-laced gardens and benches of Union Square – will be welcoming an influx of independent businesses for Wharfers to discover. 

“We knew that with this link in place, people would be able to walk down to the area from Canary Wharf and through Wood Wharf, so we’ve been looking at how we could make it a real destination,” said George Chapman, senior retail leasing surveyor at Canary Wharf Group.

“With 10 retail units, we thought we’d start with 8 Harbord Square which, I must admit, is my favourite building over there with its fully open-plan apartments.

“It’s just stunning.”

However, rather than simply open up those spaces to all-comers, George and the team decided to take a different approach.

8 Harbord Square, right, is set to be home to 10 businesses on its lower levels
8 Harbord Square, right, is set to be home to 10 businesses on its lower levels

an expansion of cool: 8 Harbord Square

“Wood Wharf is already really cool – you have the likes of coffee shop 640East, Dishoom, Mallow and many more,” he said.

“With 8 Harbord Square, we wanted to create a community vibe.

“There’s so much talent in Tower Hamlets, just outside Canary Wharf – we thought it would be great to bring some of that in. 

“In the past, local operators might have wanted to open a business on the estate but may have been unsure how to do it.

“The larger units can seem daunting, so we’ve simplified the leases with these to get the best local companies in and help build the neighbourhood.

“We’ve partnered with Tower Hamlets and gone out to local residents and businesses and have a number of tenants lined up – we wanted best-in-class operators, with a nail bar, a hair salon, a flower shop and a juice bar coming.

“We’ve helped the operators who need it apply for alcohol licences to make the process as smooth as possible.

“I can’t wait for all the tenants to move in and start trading.”

Canary Wharf Group has worked hard to attract independent businesses to the building
Canary Wharf Group has worked hard to attract independent businesses to the building

a new dimension at 8 Harbord Square

The arrivals will certainly bring a new dimension to Harbord Square.

“The area is already home to a GP surgery, a convenience store, a vet and a multi-purpose sports hall, but the new street level offering will broaden its appeal and include places for Wharfers to hang out.

It’s also a part of Wood Wharf that’s set to see much residential change both in the short and medium term, with aparthotel Vertus Edit’s launch earlier this month offering extended flexible stays.

More rental homes to the south of the square are coming in the not so distant future.

With units ranging in size from 235sq ft to 786sq ft on five-year leases, the new commercial tenants at 8 Harbord Square will benefit from Canary Wharf Group’s ongoing support as more and more people visit and discover the area.  

Union Square's opening now allows Wharfers to easily walk to 8 Harbord Square
Union Square’s opening now allows Wharfers to easily walk to 8 Harbord Square

scouring the borough

For George, it’s about creating a buzz to delight those living and staying locally.

To that end, the team scoured social media and hit the streets locally to find top operators that would be suitable for the project.

“There’s times where I’ve simply gone out for a coffee and found a place, then had a conversation about bringing a business to the estate,” he said.

“We’ve also had direct approaches.

“This is the first time we’ve done this as a business, but I’m of the view that if it’s successful, then we’d look to roll it out in other locations.

“I’d like to walk down to 8 Harbord Square in two years’ time and see the tenants happily trading in a place where everyone knows each other, that has a bit of an old East End feel to it and people look out for one another.

“That would be perfect.

“As other buildings welcome residents around 8 Harbord Square, there will be even more people coming to this part of the Wharf. 

“If I was staying in a studio at Vertus Edit, I’d love that just downstairs there’s a buzzy salon and a juice bar with a running club.

“These amenities will help people meet each other and make for an area visitors and residents really love.

“It’s what we want – a place for the community with people walking their dogs and taking their kids to the park.

“The tenants at 8 Harbord Square will all be a part of that.”

the pull of the Wharf

The mission to bring talent into Canary Wharf – with many not realising what opportunities the area might hold for them – isn’t dissimilar to George’s own story.

While he couldn’t see its towers directly growing up in west London, they nevertheless exerted an irresistible pull.

“I’ve been working here for nearly eight years, having started as a finance apprentice at Canary Wharf Group’s tech community, Level39,” he said. 

“I did my professional qualifications there and, after about two years, joined the accountancy department.

“Then an opportunity came up to move across to the investment team and from there I was working on the retail side of the business a lot.

“I got the chance to work alongside the retail team and I thought it was something I’d love to do, so I’ve now been there about three years.

“Growing up, I was always seeing Canary Wharf in the news and I remember thinking I’d love to work among the towers one day – there was a real excitement around it.

“I had my interview for the apprenticeship and then phoned my dad who’s a black cab driver.

“He told me to go to one of the bars on the estate and soak up the energy. 

“It was on a Thursday and I did exactly that. That’s when I knew I’d really like to work in Canary Wharf.

“It’s been worth crossing the line from west to east London and it’s still definitely where I want to be.

“Numbers and accountancy are very important – fine in moderation – but I get a real kick out of meeting people on a day-to-day basis in my current role. It’s a lot more personal.

“It’s such a privilege to get to know people, to find out why they get up in the morning and what makes them tick. You don’t get that same buzz from a spreadsheet.”

Full details of the businesses opening up at 8 Harbord Square will be released in due course.

However, we can reveal they will include nail specialist Awe London, hair salon Wayne Hairdresser and flower and plant retailer The Flower Club.

There will also be a hospitality offering, or two. Watch these spaces

key details: 8 Harbord Square

  • You’ll be able to find out more about 8 Harbord Square and the businesses that will soon call it home online.
  • Looking to stay locally? Vertus Edit opened this month with prices starting at £133 per night for a Little studio accommodating up to two people.
  • The largest, Roomy apartments, start at £183 for up to two guests.
  • Vertus also offers apartments for rent across Canary Wharf.

Read more: How Arc is bringing the ‘largest sauna in the UK to Canary Wharf

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Vertus Edit aparthotel to offer flexible studios in Canary Wharf

With rooms and facilities spread across two buildings in Wood Wharf we find our that’s what with general manager Isabel Landaeter

The aparthotel offers studios for flexible stays in Canary Wharf
Aparthotel Vertus Edit offers studios for flexible stays in Canary Wharf

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Where and how we want to live and work, is a debate that will continue to play a potent part in public discourse for years to come.

But one thing is certain. It’s areas that offer the greatest flexibility – real range – that will thrive. 

Smart, then that Vertus, Canary Wharf Group’s build-to-rent subsidiary, has unveiled a new product on the east London estate. 

Launching in February, 2025, Vertus Edit will run as an aparthotel across two newly-finished brick-faced buildings on Wood Wharf

Quite where hotels stop and aparthotels start is itself a matter for lengthy debate – and not one that’s necessary to explore here.

Suffice to say, Vertus Edit’s 378 studios and its extensive guest facilities offer those seeking brief or medium-term stays on the Wharf a fresh option designed to satisfy a wide range of needs. 

“That’s why this isn’t just a hotel,” said Isabel Landaeta, general manager of aparthotels at Vertus. 

“Guests get a bit more space and a fully functional kitchen – they can stay a couple of nights or for a longer period.

“We’ve got a co-working space, lounges, a gym, meeting rooms and outdoor roof terraces – there’s a lot of space for people to explore across the two buildings outside of their studios. 

“You have all the amenities you need including a 24-hour reception service and weekly housekeeping. 

“Vertus has already made a name for itself in the neighbourhood with a reputation for service, so for Vertus Edit, it was about adapting that for people with different needs – those wanting a shorter stay or more flexibility. 

“For example, someone might not want to sign a lease on a rental apartment, but they might want to live here for six months.”

Vertus' Isabel Landaeter
Vertus’ Isabel Landaeter

Vertus Edit: a home-from-home

Vertus Edit offers four studio sizes for guests, the Little, Cosy, Comfy and Roomy, ranging from 200sq ft to 301sq ft in size.

All come fully furnished with an en-suite bathroom, towels, toiletries, a kitchen equipped with cookware, utensils, crockery, glassware and cutlery, a TV and super fast Wi-fi.

While no room service is available, there is a 24-hour self-service pantry for guests to access as well as Canary Wharf’s myriad hospitality and shopping options a few minutes’ walk from West Lane via Union Square. 

Vertus Edit will obviously cater for people visiting the area for business, perhaps on secondment at a London office from overseas or in town to seal a deal, but it’s been structured as more than that.

“We’re aiming to appeal to people who might not have considered staying in Canary Wharf before,” said Isabel. 

“Of course we’ll be accommodating corporate clients and offering discounts for longer stays, but we will also be there for people visiting for conferences at Excel, gigs at The O2, those coming to see ABBA Voyage or Mamma Mia The Party and even people running the London Marathon.

“This isn’t just about Monday-to-Friday. We think we’ll appeal to people taking a longer period of time to visit London as tourists because of our transport links.”

Vertus Edit is dog friendly with puppy packs costing £50 available to guests
Vertus Edit is dog friendly with puppy packs costing £50 available to guests

flexible and local

To that end, Vertus Edit reflects the current reality of Canary Wharf – an estate that each day taps deeper into east London and the areas that surround it, increasingly blending its existing aesthetic with local flavours.

Each room features artwork from East London Printmakers – about 1,200 handmade prints in total by 10 artists. Guests can even purchase works from the collective if they wish.

Key toiletries in the studios have been sourced locally too, from Kankan, a business founded by women in Hackney that’s laser-focused on sustainability and minimising its negative impact on the environment. 

“That’s something we’re really serious about,’ said Isabel. “For our towel service, we’re using Oxwash, established by Dr Kyle Grant-Talbot. 

“He’s a former NASA and SpaceX engineer who has created a laundry process that saves water and carbon and prevents almost all microplastics entering the environment.”

In edition to its green credentials, Vertus Edit’s spaces are intended for broad appeal.

Much use is made of texture, colour and luxuriant wallpapers in the communal areas, with lush furnishings and vibrant art adorning the spaces. 

Meeting rooms will be available for hire to both guests and other individuals and organisations, with a truly open and flexible approach to the facilities on offer.

It’s all part of creating a malleable, functional addition to the estate.

The red brick edifice of 3 West Lane, one of two Vertus Edit buildings at Wood Wharf
The red brick edifice of 3 West Lane, one of two Vertus Edit buildings at Wood Wharf

the next logical step

“The evolution of why people live and stay in Canary Wharf started with private residential homes and Vertus’ rental offerings,” said Isabel.

“Vertus Edit is the logical next step – if you’re looking for greater flexibility, then this would be the product for you.

“We expect there to be some overlap, naturally, as people come for a couple of months and then decide to rent an apartment.

“It works the other way too. For people living in Canary Wharf’s towers, this acts as an extension of their homes when, for example, a relative wants to stay locally for a couple of weeks or longer.

“If you’re renting a studio flat, for instance, this provides the space to accommodate them and residents know they can trust the service because it’s from Vertus.

“We also have plans to run events for guests who are staying here and we’ll be on hand to tell them all about Canary Wharf and east London. 

“Those staying for a few months may well become friends with the team and other inhabitants, but we want the feel to be about the neighbourhood rather than forced community.

“Personally I’m most excited about people on the estate getting to understand what an aparthotel is and what it feels like. 

“In addition to what we’re offering, we also have 12 commercial spaces on the ground floor between our two buildings and I think the businesses that take these will add so much to the neighbourhood along with what’s coming on the ground floor of 8 Harbord Square.

“Since Union Square opened, I’ve been really surprised by how many people are already walking past us. 

“I’ve also been lucky enough to see some of the plans for what’s going to open here and it’s going to be really exciting.”

Vertus Edit studios feature artwork from East London Printmakers
Vertus Edit studios feature artwork from East London Printmakers

ket details: Vertus Edit

Vertus Edit is open from February 2025 with prices starting at £117.14 per night for a Little studio accommodating up to two people. 

The largest Roomy apartments start at £160.12 per night, also for up to two guests.

Find out more about the aparthotel here

Read more: How Arc is bringing the ‘largest sauna in the UK to Canary Wharf

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Canary Wharf Winter Lights set to light up east London in January

We get tips for the festival and take a deeper look at Emergency Exit Arts’ Stitching Light installation

One of the show stoppers this year will be Error at Westferry Circus
One of the show stoppers this year will be Error at Westferry Circus

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January 21, 2025 is set to see the Canary Wharf Winter Lights festival return for 12 days of illumination, filling the estate with installations for a ninth edition.

For 2025, there will be a total of 12 temporary artworks on show, combining with seven permanent pieces making a total of 19 for visitors to discover.

But when the electrons start flowing to create all those photons for our eager eyeballs to absorb, one work in particular will be shining for east London and beyond.

Commissioned by Canary Wharf Group for the festival, Stitching Light is the result of collaboration between Emergency Exit Arts (EEA), artist Ruhul Abdin in Bangladesh and Oitiji-jo.

The piece draws on the stories and experiences of British Bangladeshi women who migrated to the UK early in their adult lives.

The resulting installation will be placed at Wren Landing during Winter Lights.

the genesis of Stitching Light

“We work with hundreds of different arts practitioners and what we’ve noticed with lights festivals is that the pieces featured are often very beautiful but there may not have been participation or much of a story behind them,” said Daniel Bernstein, CEO of EEA. 

“Often the artists involved in light pieces are white men, so we’re always interested in bringing in different stories and greater depth to the work.”

With Ruhul in place as creative director, work on the project began with workshops run by freelance artist Shama Kun via the Oitiji-jo Collective at Republic in Blackwall. 

running the workshops

“I run a lot of sessions with the Bangladeshi community, dealing with crafts, so I’d bonded with the women locally,” said Shama. 

“With this project, I realised that we had never looked into the stories of the mums and aunties.

“So we provided a safe space and invited them to contribute.

“We tried to be relaxed about it, having tea, a conversation, so the process started with that. 

“We asked them to bring memorable objects, so the stories could start from there, then we drew maps, starting with their childhoods and what the transition to Britain was like.

“One thing that came out was they described their lifestyles as a rainbow.

“They said that their lives started as colourful, really amazing, and then their transition to here was a rollercoaster, not knowing people – it was a struggle.

“In the community we’ve relied on these women but haven’t looked in depth into their stories.

“They opened up for this project because they felt safe.

“They came here very vulnerable, without any support and talked about many things including being the victims of racism – that trauma is still there.

“After the workshops I realised I am here today because of their sacrifices, that we are resilient because of their resilience.

“This was a platform for them to tell their stories and I hope there will be more spaces like this for them to do that in future.

“We recorded the conversations – lots of discussions about their favourite foods, colours, smells and more – before turning over the material to Ruhul.”


An artist's impression of how Stitching Light will look at Canary Wharf Winter Lights
An artist’s impression of how Stitching Light will look at Canary Wharf Winter Lights

a piece for Canary Wharf Winter Lights

That work formed the basis of the finished piece – a series of three metre-high fabric panels with illuminated thread stitched into the design which will be displayed in a 3D structure allowing visitors to walk through and around the work.

“What you see are very beautiful, soft, subtle layers of the stories we were told,” said Ruhul.

“The panels are stitched and painted with a sound piece to accompany them reflecting some of the women’s thoughts and stories, the songs they sang and the songs they like. 

“We worked with a folk artist to translate some of these ideas into Bangla-inspired paintings which would then be taken back to London – it was back-and-forth between Bangladesh and the UK.

“For me it’s important to have this piece on display in Canary Wharf because Tower Hamlets has hosted so many generations of Bangladeshis now – there is a need to be visible beyond the brown person walking our streets.

“There is also the multicultural aspect of London and this is a nice way to celebrate something without it being a research project or an academic exercise.

“We’re creating art together and it’s a beautiful way of highlighting who the women were and are, and the potential of art to begin to make some of these nuanced changes as Canary Wharf itself continues to evolve.”

representation at Canary Wharf Winter Lights

Daniel added: “Being part of Winter Lights its really important for the participants in the workshops and for the people making the work.

“From an audience perspective, there are going to be layers.

“Perhaps half of the visitors will walk through the piece and be impressed by the lights and the images – but they may not understand the Bangla script on the panels, although there will be a panel explaining the work.

“Hopefully, anyone from a Bangladeshi background will come to the piece and see themselves represented. It’s quite subtle.”

Shama said one of the most important parts of the project was to celebrate the local community. 

“There is so much out there for us to learn from our past generations,” she said.

“These women might not boast that they have done this or that, but they have silently achieved things and we need to carry their flag.”

Ruhul added: “One of the biggest takeaways is the potential to hope that this work will continue.

“I have spoken to a colleague who is a Bangladeshi migrant elsewhere and they said how crucial it was to understand things from the elders.

“It is important to see that Stitching Light is inspiring, so the next generation want to  understand more about who they are, where their families have come from – especially those of us who are not white British, but it’s vital for everyone.”

Emergency Exit Arts was founded in 1980 as an artists’ collective aspiring to make a positive difference to people’s lives – especially those who have suffered discrimination or economic exclusion.

It has been based in Greenwich for more than 35 years.

Wave by Squidsoup will be in place at Columbus Courtyard

top tips for the festival

Canary Wharf Winter Lights is set for a blockbuster turn, drawing hundreds of thousands of people to the estate over its 12-day run.

We sat down with Canary Wharf Group’s associate curator of Arts And Events, Lowri Harries, and Arts And Events manager, Camilla McGregor, to get a few tips on what to look out for…

LH: Vendel And De Wolf are back in Westferry Circus with Error – an upside down pylon with a tornado of lights around it, 13 metres in the air.

Last year they created a piece called Sign, which looked like a huge fire. 

They specialise in taking mass produced materials and using them to depict natural phenomena.

For Error, they’ve used technology to give the piece a random element, reflecting the idea that both nature and machines can go wrong.

Don’t Miss Out: Make sure your table is booked for the festival

CM:I’m looking forward to seeing Portal in the flesh. It will be a 13 metre-high mirrored doorway in Union Square that visitors can walk through. 

I think the scale and magnitude of it will make people feel quite small in comparison and also acts as a piece to frame the Wharf with great sight lines though it to other parts of the estate.

It’s one of the largest pieces we’ve ever hosted and it’s definitely something new.

LH: I’m also especially looking forward to seeing Aj Vana Be by Benedikt Tola – it’s essentially a stack of 32 reclaimed bathtubs that have been taken from socialist-era residential buildings by the Czech artist.

It draws attention to the scarcity of water.

Even though washing is an an everyday act, it draws attention to that privilege.

CM: Putting Winter Lights on is essentially a year-long process.

A month after it’s finished, we begin work on the next edition, sending out an open call for artists and organisations to contribute.

Then we start looking for work to feature. 

LH: It feels really lovely when we see people enjoying the installations.

I think visitors really treasure a free event in January with people coming from the local community and from further afield. 

As with Stitching Light, we’re looking to work with and take inspiration from the local community more and more – we want everyone to feel comfortable coming here.

This is a place for everyone.

Canary Wharf Winter Lights will feature seven permanent installations including The Clew alongside the 12 temporary works
Canary Wharf Winter Lights will feature seven permanent installations including The Clew alongside the 12 temporary works

key details: Canary Wharf Winter Lights

Canary Wharf Winter Lights is set to run daily from January 21-February 1, 2025, 5pm-10pm, with 19 installations to discover across the estate.

The festival is free to visit.  

Find full details of Winter Lights here and plan your visit with the official event map here

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Canary Wharf welcomes artwork by Henry Gibbs celebrating Pride

The artist has used reflective aluminium paint and black dots to create intimate scenes of himself and his friends on walls at Wren Landing

Artist Henry Gibbs stands in front of his mural Get Real in Canary Wharf, a young man in a black top and denim shorts
Artist Henry Gibbs with detail from Get Real in Canary Wharf

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Canary Wharf’s Pride month celebrations generally feature vibrant colours.

From the rainbow pedestrian crossings to the multicolour triangles of Lothar Götz, subtly recalling the abuse of LGBTQIA+ people at the hands of the Nazis.

But Henry Gibbs Get Real, painted on three walls at Wren Landing overlooking West India North Dock, presents a different take on queer relationships and intimacy.

Pass by close up and his monochrome dots may well be incomprehensible – a random pattern in black and white.

But move further away and things start to come into focus. 

Two women look at Henry's artwork at Canary Wharf's Wren Landing
Passers-by take in Get Real at Wren Landing

discovery in abstraction

“While I was painting it, I hadn’t really comprehended the image because I was very close to it all the time,” said Henry, who spent three weeks creating the work.

“When I felt something from it was when I went over to the other side of the dock.

“That action of taking a step back is when the emotion comes, not necessarily one particular feeling, but really trying to understand something and getting to know it.

“The act of abstraction and including hidden references is a very queer thing. I could say that the dots are a queer abstraction, which is a theory in itself.

“Then there’s the use of colour in the work – I wanted to create something more understated for this commission.

“With the black dots I was thinking about light, so I used aluminium reflective paint as the base, which literally takes light and colour from the sources around it.

“That’s a queer thing in itself, because of the constant change that is being influenced by the painting’s environment.

“The black dots are also like a newspaper-style print and the mural as a whole has this aspect of absorption, which is a reflection of queer identity.

“The aluminium paint will pick up some colour in different lights – at sunset it can have an orange glow and there will be a similar effect at five in the morning as well as the glow of artificial lights at night.”

Henry is the second artist to create work on the estate through Canary Wharf Group’s partnership with Pictorum Gallery, following the unveiling of Lydia Hamblet’s Together, Basking On The South Quay in 2023. 

A recent graduate of Central Saint Martins, he said he’d developed an increasingly mechanical way of painting, having become interested in technology as a medium.

Artist Henry Gibbs stands in front of his mural Get Real in Canary Wharf, a young man in a black top and denim shorts
Henry says the dots he uses create a ‘distorted, abstract look up close’

joining the dots

“I developed this dot technique, using found imagery and photography I do myself,” he said.

“I half-tone and then project them onto a canvas to create a distorted, abstract look up close.

“Then at a distance – or if you view it online – you get a sense of the image that’s there. That’s also the technique I used for the mural.

“The title comes from the film Get Real, which is about coming out in school – it’s quite a raw 1990s movie that was cheaply made but has a real impact and a strong message about growing up gay.

“The painting’s title is also about Jacques Lacan’s psychoanalytic theory of The Real – that your self comes from within and is not influenced by anything else.

“I don’t really believe in coming out, but my real self is found in the images in the work. It features my friends Ed and Tommy as well as me on the thinner wall.

“It references my own queer friendships and intimacies, which have only developed quite recently, so there’s discovery too, which I wanted to celebrate. 

“It’s a strange feeling to have this mural in Canary Wharf. It’s my thing, but it’s also such a public display of the work.

“I would have to go and see people looking at it to understand how that feels – I can’t really imagine it.

“I found the process of doing it very exposing, because there were people watching me doing it. It did feel good to complete it.

“My friends and family all came to the launch and I felt pleased with what I’ve done.

“I’d never been to Canary Wharf before this project, I didn’t know who I’d be working with or where.

“There were a lot of late nights, a lot of work, but we got it done and I feel very accomplished.  

Image shows Get Real from further away with images of men visible in the dots
Viewers can make out images as they move further away from the work

key details: Get Real in Canary Wharf

Get Real can be seen at Wren Landing (between Cabot Square and West India North Dock.

It is a permanent part of Canary Wharf’s public art collection and will be on display for the foreseeable future.

Find out more about the mural here

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- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com
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The Upper Lofts are unveiled at Canary Wharf’s 8 Harbord Square

Open-plan, top-floor apartments go on sale at New York-inspired Wood Wharf residential building

Image shows the view from a terrace at 8 Harbord Square, overlooking The O2 and Greenwich Peninsula
The Upper Lofts sit on the top floor of 8 Harbord Square

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The residential properties contained on the lower levels of 8 Harbord Square are a brave, bold statement.

Presented almost completely open-plan (you do get walled off bathrooms), they recall Docklands’ warehouses with more than a nod, stylistically, to the red-brick structures of New York’s Meatpacking District.

But while the flavour is of industrial buildings cleverly converted for residential use, the 11-storey tower is newly built, meaning it comes with none of the hassle or dodgy bodges that can plague refurbishment projects.

Instead, the exposed concrete ceilings, black metal framed windows and cast iron radiators are all carefully thought-through design statements contained within a thoroughly modern structure.

Image shows a space dressed with a green sofa, marble table and various green and blue soft furnishings
The apartments offer a completely open-plan design with industrial details

Capping the whole thing off, developer Canary Wharf Group has now launched a pair of apartments on the building’s top floor.

The Upper Lofts, both priced at £1,950,000, feature internal living space of 1,400sq ft and feature wrap-around terraces of more than 1,000 sq ft. 

Properties feature fully-fitted kitchens with stainless steel units and counter tops as well as Siemens appliances.

Bathrooms come with free standing baths, double basins and black-framed, walk-in showers.

Image shows a stainless steel kitchen in one of The Upper Lofts at 8 Harbord Sqaure with a marble table and breakfast bar in the foreground
The 8 Harbord Square homes come with fully fitted stainless steel kitchens

a singular offering at 8 Harbord Square

Canary Wharf Group director of residential sales, Melanie Conway, said: “The expression ‘one-of-a-kind’ is sometimes overused, but in this instance, The Upper Lofts represent ‘two-of-a-kind’ apartments not seen before in London. 

“Their positioning within 8 Harbord Square and the wider Canary Wharf estate gives them views of iconic surrounding landmarks, which previously you would only have seen from some of our tallest residential buildings.

“With vast wrap-around terraces and totally open plan living spaces, they have been designed to take advantage of these views and the natural light that floods the spaces, giving residents the most incredible sunrises and sunsets. 

“8 Harbord Square marks the final building in our residential portfolio on the estate, meaning it’s the last opportunity to own a piece of the Wharf’s rich history and to be a part of the incredible transformation that has taken place here.”

Image shows chairs and coffee tables in The Upper Lofts show apartment
Residents are free to configure and dress their apartment however they like

an emerging neighbourhood

Part of Canary Wharf’s Wood Wharf development, 8 Harbord Square is the final building in Canary Wharf Group’s scheme to feature homes for private sale.

Further residential projects will fall under its wholly-owned subsidiary Vertus, which boasts an extensive portfolio of homes to live in via all-inclusive rental deals.

Wood Wharf itself is rapidly becoming established as an area to visit with restaurants such as Dishoom, Hawksmoor, MMy Wood Wharf, Emilia’s Crafted Pasta and Roe attracting a steady stream of visitors.

Third Space recently opened a new site locally, adding Hot Yoga, Reformer Pilates and a new 20m swimming pool to its Canary Wharf offering, while creative companies such as Qube, Vow Studio and Broadwick also now call the neighbourhood home.

The Cube, a competitive socialising experience is set to open nearby, while Harbord Square itself now boasts a vet, GP surgery, convenience store and a sports hall and gym complex for residents to investigate. 

Image shows a terrace at 8 Harbord Square with views of the Canary Wharf skyline in the background
The Upper Lofts feature wrap-around terraces with views over London

key details – 8 Harbord Square

The Upper Lofts at 8 Harbord Square are both priced at £1,950,000.

Other properties in the 82-apartment building start at £770,000 for an 801sq ft home or £990,000 for 1,037sq ft. 

Find out more about The Upper Lofts here

Read more: How Third Space has expanded its offering at Canary Wharf

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- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com
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Canary Wharf: How Paws On The Wharf highlights and celebrates Guide Dogs’ work

Charity teams up with Citi, Canary Wharf Group, Wild In Art and the Canal And River Trust to create trail

Guide Dogs has placed a trail of 25 sculptures across the Canary Wharf area

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Kudos to Guide Dogs, Wild In Art, Citi, Canary Wharf Group and the Canal And River Trust.

The organisations have come together to create a pop-up trail of 25 sculptures, celebrating and raising awareness of the charity’s work.

Inspired by a London-based guide dog called Theia, each of the canine statues has been decorated by a different artist, forming a route that takes visitors across Canary Wharf as well as to West India Quay and Canary Garden.

“The Paws On The Wharf trail features sculptures scattered all over this area with a total distance of about 5km,” said Guide Dogs CEO, Andrew Lennox, at the launch event. 

“We’ve only just launched and we’re already seeing such great engagement and involvement with the public.

“People who see these sculptures are appreciating the art, but also learning more about the impact Guide Dogs has on people’s lives every single day and the artists behind the creations.

The sculptures can be found at West India Quay as well as in Canary Wharf and Canary Garden on South Quay

“We had Theia at the launch, who is a dog sponsored by one of our amazing partners Citi, which is also supporting the trail.”

Jackson Mendosa, chief of staff to Citi’s UK CEO, added: “Two things that make this trail stand out are accessibility and inclusivity, which are also concepts we believe we embrace as a firm through our staff and our business. 

“Guide Dogs was our charity partner between 2020 and 2022, with Theia the result of that relationship – but it was also the start of this initiative.

Paws On The Wharf’s first sculpture is just outside Citi’s offices and I’d like to thank everyone involved in the trail – it’s really something phenomenal.”

Key among those involved are, of course, the artists.

Sian Healey and Uri

Sian Healey created Guide Dog Adventures for the trail, which can be found near the eastern exit from Canary Wharf’s Crossrail Station.

She said: “I’m from Cardiff and I’ve been visually impaired since I was a child, due to a form of albinism that affects my eyes, hair and skin.

“I lose melanin slowly over time.

“I’ve always needed extra support and help throughout my life, whether that was with education or mobility and, eventually I applied for a guide dog, which now gives me independence.

“I had my first guide dog 15 years ago when my children were young and that opened up my world considerably.

“I had been pretty independent before when I was on my own – using my cane and hiding my disability as much as possible.

“But with young children you can no longer do that because you could be putting them in danger.

Sian’s postcard of London

“Once I had children, I had to accept how poor my vision was – how potentially dangerous simple tasks like walking across a road could be – and I had to reach out and accept help, because it was affecting my mental health too.”

Having donated artwork to Guide Dogs as a way of giving something back to the charity, Sian was invited to contribute a piece to the trail.

She said: “I submitted a few ideas which were developed and eventually accepted.

“Then, one day, Wild In Art delivered a big statue of a guide dog to my home and I was left with the paints.

“Uri – my current guide dog – didn’t like him at all.

“We had to cover the sculpture with a duvet most of the time. Uri wouldn’t go near him, even while I was working.

“I wanted my piece to be about being a guide dog owner and, of the 25, mine is probably the most realistic-looking.

“He’s in a traditional harness and has a nose that’s the same colour as Uri’s.

“Then I thought about what these dogs do for us and how I could depict that.

Sian’s postcard from Northern Ireland

“The main thing is to do with travel – getting out and about and doing things.

“So I thought of postcards of different places people had been with their guide dogs.

“The organisers wanted it to reflect all parts of the UK, so I have views from Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales.

“I also wanted it to reflect the diversity of what the charity offers, so there are different dogs on there – labradors, retrievers and a shepherd – with a variety of owners.

“I’ve always painted and drawn, although I did stop for a while.

“It started picking up again when I had my first guide dog, who helped me to get to art classes and build my confidence up.

“It’s something I’ve always loved doing, and my artwork is different from other people’s because of the way I see – it’s very blurry and abstract at times, because that’s the way my world is.

“I have no depth vision, so that’s why my paintings are a bit flat but very bright.

“I have to wear dark glasses and hats all the time because the light burns my eyes and I have no colouring in the back of them.

Sian’s postcard from Wales

“In certain lights I can’t see anything at all, but in other lights I can see quite well up to my nose.

“My sight is constantly changing and it’s not something I can depend on. 

“It’s quite a buzz to have a piece included in the trail.

“I hope Paws On The Wharf helps people understand that visual impairment is a spectrum, not just one thing and that this trail helps raise awareness.” 

Following the trail, the sculptures are set to be auctioned off to raise money for Guide Dogs.

This will take place at the Saatchi Gallery on June 5, 2024, with a limited number of tickets, costing £20, available on an application basis.

Prices will start at £2,000. Those interested in attending should in the first instance email pawsonthewharf@guidedogs.org.uk for more information.   

Guide Dog Adventures by Sian Healey can be found outside the east exit of the Elizabeth Line station at Canary Wharf

key details

The Paws On The Wharf trail starts in Jubilee Park and is available to follow from now until May 17, 2024.

Visitors can tour the sculptures at their leisure using either a digital or printed map.

A limited number of free, bookable, 90-minute multi-sensory tours – with priority spaces for people with sight loss and the option to request a sighted guide – will also be held on various dates during the trail’s run.

These will include both items to smell and touch. 

Find our more about Paws On The Wharf here

Read more: How St James’ Bow Green development is at one with nature

Read Wharf Life’s e-edition here

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- Jon Massey is co-founder and editorial director of Wharf Life and writes about a wide range of subjects in Canary Wharf, Docklands and east London - contact via jon.massey@wharf-life.com
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