With rents in the capital continuing to soar, shared ownership schemes are having a bit of a moment.
Typically purchasing a percentage of a property while paying rent on the remainder, even when a service charge is included, is generally cheaper than renting a comparable property nearby.
The advantages for prospective buyers are many.
Chief among these perhaps are the relative security in comparison to the precarious situation of being a tenant, autonomy over the space and its decoration and crucially the ability to access the sales market with a considerably lower deposit than would be necessary to buy outright.
Canning Town is also having a moment.
The area near the station has been undergoing extensive regeneration for years with plenty of new amenities arriving and much more still to come.
Highly connected, it’s a mere two stops on the Jubilee line from Canary Wharf and enjoys direct connections to London City Airport, Excel, Woolwich, Stratford and the City.
SO Resi is about to bring these two things together.
The shared ownership brand of Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing – the fifth largest housing association in the UK – is set to unveil a collection of 37 apartments in May.
The immediate area boasts a multitude of attractions, including craft beer at Husk, modern Italian food at Pepenero, a bouldering facility at Rise Climbing and outdoorsy activities at Bow Ecology Park and environmental community project Cody Dock.
Residents will be within walking distance of City Hall at Royal Docks, the home of the English National Ballet at London City Island and the art and heritage of Trinity Buoy Wharf.
It’s a compelling offering, even before you factor in the bustle of Stratford, the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Westfield Stratford City, Canary Wharf, The O2 and Greenwich Peninsula – all within two Tube stops or less.
Canning Town station is also a major bus interchange, meaning residents can easily access areas such as Bethnal Green, Aldgate, Walthamstow and even Romford.
This is all evidence that, with a great deal more development in the pipeline, prices in E16 are likely to rise as demand for well-connected, regenerated parts of the capital increases.
SO Resi sales and marketing director Kevin Sims
SO Resi sales and marketing director, Kevin Sims, said: “It is no secret that London has become a place where a range of buyers are being priced out – especially first-time buyers.
“As such, the new SO Resi Canning Town scheme could be the perfect option for 2024.
“The scheme will allow purchasers to buy a percentage share that they will pay a mortgage on, with the remainder being paid on below-market rent and then service charges too.
“A lot of people are looking to avoid the rental trap who would never be able to afford to buy on the open market – with rents rising the fastest in London.
The Canning Town apartments will feature open-plan living areas
“One of the biggest benefits of shared ownership at SO Resi Canning Town is that deposits are often considerably lower than buying on the open market.
“This is because you put a deposit down on the share that you’re buying – 25%, for example – rather than the value of the whole property.
“As an example, at our recent SO Resi Hendon Waterside development, a 5% deposit on a 25% share of a one-bedroom apartment could be as low as £4,129.
“If London is a place you aim to stay in for the long term too, staircasing is a brilliant way to continue along the journey to full home ownership.
“It’s possible to buy shares at any time – but we offer the SO Resi Plus scheme, which was pioneered by us, and has now been rolled out nationally.
The apartments are located close to Canning Town station
“The scheme allows buyers to staircase at a gradual pace by purchasing an additional 1% share each year, which can be done at the touch of a button with no solicitors needed, making the ultimate goal of home ownership that little bit more achievable.
“Knowing this benefit is available to you throughout your journey should give you peace of mind – a purchase as little as 1% can make a world of difference in the long term.”
Shared ownership buyers purchase between 10% and 75% of a home and pay a capped rent on the remainder.
Typically schemes offer 25% or more, however.
SO Resi Canning Town’s apartments are set to go on sale next month with a show home expected to open in June, 2024.
The apartments are set to go on sale in May, 2024
key details
SO Resi Canning Town is a collection of 37 apartments ranging in size from one-beds to three-beds.
The properties are set to come on the market in May, 2024, with prices yet to be announced.
- 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
Being a tenant in London can feel like you’re on a treadmill that it’s impossible to get off.
You work hard just to stay in the same place, with money simply disappearing from your account each month.
For that, you get a roof over your head and a property maintained, but seldom improved.
Rent’s expensive too, making saving cash for a deposit challenging at the best of times.
It’s a precarious situation, with rent rises and landlords selling up a constant reminder that a rapid house move may always be in the pipeline, with comparatively little notice.
Without capital or the means to build it up, the dream of home ownership can easily seem just that, a fantasy.
There is, however, another way. Affordable housing providers are increasingly holding up shared ownership deals as a mirror to renting.
Buyers can purchase 25% or more of a property with a mortgage while paying a capped rent on the remainder.
That typically means a much lower deposit than buying outright, plus lower monthly outgoings than comparable properties up for rent.
The scheme features a communal roof garden for residents to use
“It’s the biggest selling point,” said Kate McLure, regional sales manager for south London at London Square.
“As a developer that’s all about creating communities, it was quite apparent to us that there were a large number of people in the capital who want to purchase a property but aren’t able to get on the ladder.
“Your average Londoner who works in the city often isn’t able to buy on the open market.
“That’s why we set up Square Roots as an accredited affordable housing provider, so we could offer shared ownership to those people.
“The products that we’re building are similar in terms of specification – really this is about opening up opportunities for people to get access to these homes.”
Square Roots Lewisham recently launched, a scheme of 141 apartments with one, two and three-bedroom homes available on a shared ownership basis.
Prices start at £106,250 for a 25% share in a one-bed with a full market value of £425,000.
The scheme is located within walking distance of both rail and DLR services at Lewisham station beside the River Ravensbourne.
“The products we’re building at Square Roots are similar in specification to those we’re selling through London Square,” said Kate.
“Square Roots is really about opening up opportunities for people to be able to purchase these homes.
“The aim is that they can then staircase their share in the property until they own the whole thing.
“What we find is that a lot of people come to us who are renting privately in the surrounding areas and are paying more every month than they would on a mortgage payment and rent combined through shared ownership.”
A show home interior at Square Roots Lewisham
THE MATHS
To illustrate that point, we took a deep dive into the figures to see how the entry level one-bed at Square Roots Lewisham stacks up against a similar flat available for rent in the area.
Using Square Roots’ affordability calculator, buyers of the £425,000 one-bed can expect a monthly cost of £1,531.
That figure includes a mortgage payment of £658 based on a 25 year term with a 5% deposit of £5,313.
Then there’s £730 of rent, payable on the 75% owned by Square Roots at a rate of 2.75% of its value.
The remainder – £143 – is the estimated service charge for the 551sq ft property, at £3.13 per sq ft.
In contrast, a slightly smaller rental flat (538sq ft) at a similar distance from the station costs £1,575 per month to rent.
Square Roots Lewisham is located close. to Lewisham Station
“The other thing you get with shared ownership, which is really quite different to private rent, is security,” said Kate.
“It’s not like being a tenant. You don’t have to ask your landlord for permission to decorate or be worried about not getting your deposit back if you put picture hooks in the walls.
“It’s your property – you can do what you want with it, even though you’re sharing the ownership with the housing provider.
“You have that stability in knowing you won’t have to move and it works out as more affordable than renting.
“At Square Roots Lewisham, we’ve been very mindful not to build too many amenities into the scheme that would potentially make the service charge too expensive for people buying here.
“It’s right next to Lewisham town centre, so there are plenty of gyms, services, shops, restaurants and bars for buyers to enjoy.
“It’s a responsibility for us to attract as wide a customer base as possible and we don’t want to price people out.
“We want buyers to have the choice about what to spend their money on after they have moved in, rather than making assumptions about what they want.”
IN FOCUS
The entry-level one-bed apartment at Square Roots Lewisham comes with a fully-fitted kitchen, balcony, open-plan living area and built-in storage in the bedroom. Here are a few quick fire facts:
- Total size: 551sq ft
- Leasehold term: 990 years
- Time to Canary Wharf: 18 minutes (from station)
- Total value: £425,000
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- Estimated monthly cost: £1,531
- Time to cycle to Greenwich Park: 12 minutes
- Train travel to Cannon Street: 20 minutes
With parent company London Square’s name an homage to the communal outdoor spaces in the older parts of the city, Square Roots offers a communal roof garden on the fifth floor of its Lewisham scheme.
As an ongoing shared ownership partner with buyers, it will also host a customer community committee so residents will have a voice in how things are run on a long-term basis.
“It’s very much a collaborative effort,” said Kate.
“People will have a say and that say matters. I think shared ownership still needs demystifying to some extent.
“The process can seem overwhelming to first-time buyers, so I would always invite them to come and talk to us.
“We can then put them in touch with independent financial advisers who can help them to see what they can afford.”
- 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
Set beside the wider regeneration of the Ferrier Estate, the area has been transformed in recent years with extensive house building and landscaping.
This project has seen a wealth of amenities arrive in this part of the Royal Borough Of Greenwich, including the blockbuster playgrounds and open spaces of Cator Park – a winner of the Sir David Attenborough award for biodiversity – all of which will benefit Kidbrooke Square buyers.
NHG Homes’ scheme is currently offering one, two and three-bedroom properties on a shared ownership basis, with prices starting at £92,500 for a quarter share of an apartment.
The housing association recently unveiled a one-bedroom show home on-site, showcasing the features of its homes including fully fitted kitchens with A+ energy-rated appliances, bathrooms with porcelain floor tiles and white sanitaryware as well as built-in wardrobes and storage space.
Properties feature open-plan design and boast private outdoor space (including two apartments with winter gardens). Further benefits on-site include communal cycle storage and a concierge service.
Locally, Pegler Square is home to cafes, shops and The Depot pub as well as a gym and regular food markets.
In addition to Cator Park, the open spaces of Kidbrooke Green Park and Sutcliffe Park are also within easy walking distance.
The development is located right beside Kidbrooke Station, offering rapid connections into the centre of the capital – London Bridge takes about 16 minutes, with Waterloo East three minutes beyond that.
Shared ownership properties at the scheme feature open-plan design
Journeys to Canary Wharf take a little over 20 minutes with a change at Lewisham onto the DLR.
The area is well served by bus services and cycle routes, with trips to Blackheath and Greenwich within easy pedalling distance.
NHG Homes head of marketing and digital, Amie Triphook-Cole, said: “Now is a brilliant time to buy at Kidbrooke Square, as residents start to move in and the community continues to grow.
“These fantastic apartments have been designed with a sense of comfort, accessibility and sustainability in mind.”
NHG Homes said the monthly costs of a shared ownership property at Kidbrooke – where rent is paid on the portion of the property not owned by the buyer – were cheaper on average than renting locally.
With a 5% deposit paid on a 25% share of its entry level one-bed, it estimates that cost to be £1,344 per month, dropping to £1,291, if a buyer pays a 10% deposit.
Fully fitted kitchens come with A+ energy-rated appliances
key details
Prices at Kidbrooke Square start at £92,500 for a 25% share of a one-bed apartment, based on a total market value of £370,000.
The home extends to some 566sq ft and is available with a minimum deposit of £4,625 (5%).
Two-beds are also available starting at £111,875 for a 25% share. Deposits for that property would start at just under £5,600 (5%).
- 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
The first development to feature in our focus on shared ownership is Square Roots Lewisham.
Delivered in partnership with developer London Square, the south-east London scheme presents prospective buyers with a collection of 141 one, two and three-bedroom apartments as well as duplexes.
Located beside the River Ravensbourne, the development is seven minutes walk from Lewisham Station for rail and DLR services offering links to Canary Wharf and the City.
Properties at Square Roots Lewisham feature fully fitted kitchens and bathrooms, private balconies or terraces for all apartments and space for home working.
The development boasts riverside walks, play areas and a communal roof terrace for residents as well as cycle storage, wireless door entry via handheld devices, a 10-year NHBC warranty and a two-year Square Roots customer service warranty.
Buyers can expect to be able to move into their properties this spring.
Readers can find out more information about the event by calling 0333 666 2535 or registering online at squareroots.co.uk.
The developer is also offering prospective buyers a package of incentives for those reserving properties at the full asking price.
Those purchasing a one-bed can get up to £4,000 of tailored benefits, while those opting for a two-bed can get up to £6,000.
The development boasts a communal roof terrace
Incentives include Window treatments from Thread And Dandy, John Lewis or Ikea vouchers, an annual travel card for Zones 1-6 or an annual parking space at Lewisham Shopping Centre.
London Square South managing director, Sean Gavin, said: “This is an outstanding opportunity for buyers keen to purchase a high quality new home close to the heart of London, which offers great value.
“Square Roots Lewisham is part of an extensive regeneration of the town centre, where significant investment is being made.
“This is excellent news for buyers who are looking for an affordable home in a great location in the capital.”
Canary Wharf workers considering a home at the development can look forward to a commute of less than 30 minutes door-to-door.
Residents will also benefit from an extensive network of local cycle paths offering direct connections to Greenwich, Blackheath and Deptford.
Lewisham itself has seen an influx of capital and activity in recent years with regeneration projects that have delivered new homes and amenities.
The area continues to see strong price growth, with Rightmove recording a 6% rise in average values year-on-year, 11% up on the 2020 peak of £545,248.
This contrasts favourably with trends in other areas of London, which have seen falls in recent years.
Square Roots was established by London Square two years ago with the aim of delivering 3,500 affordable homes over the next five years.
With 1,000 properties currently under construction, its schemes have already attracted recognition in the Evening Standard New Homes Awards and First Time Buyer Awards.
Square Roots Lewisham is set to launch a three-bedroom show home
key details
Prices at Square Roots Lewisham start at £106,250 for a 25% share of a one-bed apartment, based on a total market value of £425,000.
The home extends to some 551sq ft and is available with a minimum deposit of just over £5,300 (5%).
- 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
Refurbishing and updating the interior of a property can have myriad benefits.
The process offers owner-occupiers the chance to enjoy and use their home to its full potential while adding value should they wish to sell in the future.
For landlords, it’s an opportunity to boost and extend the appeal of their asset to attract more affluent tenants.
Interior design specialists Paul Cuschieri and Malcolm Abela Sciberras have expanded their business to London, having established Rebirth in Malta.
Here we look at three of their projects that typify their approach when working for clients in the field.
“This property is a mid-century London apartment,” said Paul.
“With us, it’s all about discussing briefs, budget, timelines, style and the needs of our client.
“In this particular project we were tasked with creating a home away from home for our client, but with the possibility of it being rented out.
“This two-bedroom home was dated, worn and tacky, so we had to bring it up to modern standards.
“Efficiency and energy conservation were also very important, so we installed double glazing and changed the central heating system to one that uses less fuel.
“We also made sure the property was in line with all relevant regulations for rental homes.
“Once all these things were set, we went into the design of the space.
Old and new – some original furniture has been retained
“We recommended going for a minimalist, eclectic feel that’s common to many of our projects. The reason is that we layer the space, creating points of interest.”
This approach allowed Rebirth to take existing statement pieces from the property and build them into their scheme.
Malcolm said: “It gives the place more character, with different features making it feel a bit homelike.
“Our approach also enables us to include any pieces of furniture a client may want to keep and that can be restored if necessary before being incorporated into the design.
“For example, here the dining table and the chairs, a desk and a wall unit were brought back into the final design accordingly so the living area still has those elements.”
Much of the interior on the three-month project, however, was newly installed, with Rebirth also dressing the apartment ready for rental.
“Having worked with the client during the whole process, obviously it becomes easier for us to select items that make the apartment feel like somewhere they would be comfortable living,” said Malcolm.
Rebirth always aims to satisfy its clients’ briefs
Paul added: “The architectural elements of the space did not convey bombast – they are a bit minimalist and we wanted to respect this and the era the apartment was built in.
“We were also inspired by the feeling that the place gave us.
“Our design aims to be timeless so it will age well and it’s also very neat.
“The kitchen units hide the new boiler system very well and the appliances are beautifully integrated, making the space feel less cluttered.
“That’s important because rental properties need to appeal to as many people as possible.
The firm also dressed the apartment, ready for occupancy
“We use layering to make our interiors feel as though they’ve been there since the beginning, rather than having designs which look too clinical that people can’t relate to.
“The principal bedroom, for example, features darker colours with a masculine feel, but softer furniture with more feminine elements to broaden its appeal.
“We wanted to make it so that when moving from room to room, each would be aligned to the overall feel of the place.
>> Functionality and versatility were the two watchwords for Rebirth when it came to the scheme for this three-bedroom apartment in the company’s native Malta.
Cupboards and doors to conceal functional elements are everywhere in this property hiding an oak-panelled cloakroom, for example.
“The palette is white, white, white, so we wanted to break that down with warm materials, such as bronze or brass accents,” said Paul.
“It has a certain formality but it’s still comfortable.
“One of the things we do when it comes to trends – and at the moment, minimalism is on trend – is to adapt them.
Wooden elements are present in multiple locations
“This kitchen needed to be open-plan and to blend with the aesthetics we’ve got whites and neutral colours.
“But in order to break that up, we also have some glass-fronted cabinets to create interest.
“Then we have the engineered oak flooring which we’ve introduced throughout most of the apartment.
“Then against the white we have included accents via different textures.
“For example, we were given a healthy budget for the main bathroom so we clad the walls in marble with different shades of white and grey.
“That’s broken up by the vanity unit with its textured front and the bespoke marble sink on top as well as the brass handles and accessories and a timber-rimmed mirror.
“We’re always looking to create balance.”
>> Malcolm added: “Our use of colour and texture depends on the design of the project.
“Here we’ve used brass as it’s the right amount of contrast.
The principal bedroom of the property
“Chrome and silver are on a different spectrum to brass and bronze – they are colder and white is already rather cold so we can balance that with warmer shades.
“We’ve done similar things in some of the other rooms where the furniture is white but broken up with oak drawers.”
>> Paul said: “Light and lighting are also exceptionally important in our designs.
“We always make sure there is lighting at various levels with wall lights, ceiling lights and inset lights to make sure the space works during the day and at night.
“In this apartment there is a single bedroom that we designed for the owners’ daughter.
“We created a working area as well as a sleeping area, using a visual barrier to divide the space without stopping the natural light from the window from coming into the space.
Textures and accents in a white marble bathroom
“It’s a playful area so we were able to bring more colour in here than in other parts of the apartment to add a bit more character.
“We also wanted something a bit grand for the principal bedroom and we continued the oak with panelling up the walls to do that.
“This is linked to an en suite via a glass door to let the light through – here we’re also introducing darker, more masculine tones against the feminine elements in the main room.
“We have a marble sink that mirrors the one in the main bathroom, but this time in a dark grey with a matching floor.
“The idea is again to create a balance.”
This two-room project saw a kitchen and living room refurbished
>> The final property we’re featuring from Rebirth is a two-room project.
While the company often tackles whole properties, it also takes on the refurbishment of specific spaces to add value to homes.
“This was a kitchen and living room in a duplex penthouse at a residential block in Malta,” said Paul.
“In the kitchen we’ve combined traditional Maltese styles with Scandinavian influences.
“For example, with the units we’re using warm timber tones in a modern approach to Shaker style and creating combinations which are anything but minimalistic, but still aren’t overwhelming.
While different the spaces are designed to respond to each other
“There’s a modern-looking island unit and a plain matte look for the work surfaces with a marble mosaic for the splash back.
“We’ve included different dimensions of white with elegant coving and green to bring the outdoors indoors to complement the traditional tiles.
“Once again, we’ve made sure there’s plenty of lighting with track lights, pendants and illumination over the splash back.
“It’s a dynamic space that isn’t too much.”
Colour has been used, inspired by the vibrant ceramic floor tiles
>> Rebirth’s strategy, inspired by the vibrant ceramics on the floor was not to shy away from visual complexity, but rather to frame and contain it within interior elements.
In the kitchen, that meant a wall unit housing a wine fridge, shelving and more plus plenty of display space in the living room.
“The lounge is much more subtle – still not minimalist – but softer,” said Malcolm.
“We’ve gone for white curtains, but we’ve also included plants to make it feel like a garden.
“Once more, we’re blending – the kitchen is perhaps more masculine while the living room is a more feminine space.
“To mix that up we have the black fireplace in the lounge, while the kitchen has the round dining chairs and the floral pattern on the floor.
“There are elements of bold black in both spaces and that helps to make sure that the transition from one room to the other really works.”
Plants have been employed to soften the space
>> Rebirth offers a full suite of interior services in London including individual room design and whole-home options.
The firm can handle full renovations including engineering tasks, right through to dressing properties ready for occupancy.
Specialising in refurbishments – hence the company’s name – the company offers everything from conceptual design to detailed drawings and renders, decor and furniture selection and project management.
While Malcolm’s background is in design, Paul is an architect by training, with the pair teaming up five years ago to go into business together.
- 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
Excitement bounces between Paul Cuschieri and Malcolm Abela Sciberras as they talk about their approach to the projects they work on.
Having known each other for more than a decade, the pair joined forces in 2019 to create Rebirth, an interior design studio that brings together multiple disciplines to offer clients a comprehensive range of services.
Working in their native Malta, the pair have now expanded operations to London, recently establishing an office to cater for clients across the capital.
A full service operation, Rebirth combines architectural, aesthetic and practical disciplines to offer homeowners as wide a range of options as possible.
Specialising in refurbishments – hence the company’s name – the pair offer everything from conceptual design to detailed drawing and renders, decor and furniture selection and project management.
“Malcolm’s background is in design and mine is in architecture and we’ve joined our vision and expertise together to offer a holistic, well-balanced approach to projects,” said Paul.
“We want to create something that goes beyond just being beautiful – spaces that express emotion, that have a certain character, and immediately feel like home.
“We don’t have a specific style. That’s because our work is focused on each client and their requirements are different.
REbirth was founded by Paul Cuschieri, left, and Malcolm Abela Sciberras
“Rebirth offers a boutique experience.
“We need to make sure our spaces speak their language, so that when they have guests they can see and feel that it’s our client’s space they are in.
“As designers, we grow thanks to these projects, because we are subject to so many influences from the people we work for and our research, which helps us creatively.
“We consider our designs as pieces of living art.”
Everything for Rebirth starts with a budget and a brief.
The first is key to identify the boundaries of a scheme, while the second is where the creativity begins.
“When we’re discussing the brief, that’s when our imaginations start to run wild,” said Malcolm.
“We’re always listening to the client, of course, but having a new project is something that’s very exciting for us and the team.”
Paul added: “We start by asking our clients how much they want to invest.
“It would be useless for us to invent all kinds of designs without knowing what they can afford.
“We need to base our concept on their budget, so that’s quite an important question.
“Something we then do – although it takes a bit more effort on our side – is to draw up a skeletal breakdown of the costs.
“Whatever the budget, we create a wish-list to identify what in our proposal we consider to be a priority.
Rather than following a specific style, Rebirth’s approach is bespoke to the property
“We presume that we will have this amount for decoration, this money for services, this for furniture, this for kitchen appliances and so on.
“That gives a starting point. This is flexible, of course, because the client will have certain priorities – communication is key.”
Having completed a diverse portfolio of projects in the firm’s native Malta, Rebirth has expanded to the UK thanks to a recent project.
“We were fortunate enough that one of our Maltese clients has a property in London,” said Paul.
“As soon as we’d finished refurbishing it, we felt that we were on the right track. We’ve always loved London, the culture and the cosmopolitan feel of the place.
“I love its history and that’s something we know about, because we work on listed properties in Malta.
“For those reasons we decided London would be an interesting place to take our services – so we’ve established an office in the city.”
That affinity for working with historic, listed and protected properties is perhaps typified by Rebirth’s response to a brief for a client with a property at Balluta Buildings in St Julian’s.
Built in 1928 and designed by architect Giuseppe Psaila, it is scheduled as a Grade I monument on the Mediterranean island.
“It was built in the Art Deco period and was, at the time, one of the largest and most luxurious properties in Europe,” said Paul.
“The brief was to get the apartment back to its former glory, so we had to do our research on the style and decor.
“The reason people come to us is that we make sure our schemes are layered, that the new interiors we create for a project like this feel like they’ve been there from the start.”
Rebirth works with a brief and budget for its clients
The approach goes far beyond aesthetics too, with Rebirth able to call on the engineering expertise of Paul’s father’s firm to present clients with a full suite of options.
“That means we can combine things like underfloor heating, air conditioning, central heating, lighting and fire protection with what we do,” said Paul.
“We always try to come up with challenges that we might face during a project, so we can tackle them at the design stage rather than during the implementation and risk having delays.
“As my father is an electrical engineer I’ve always been around construction sites, but decided I wanted to follow a more artistic path where I was designing and building something.
“That’s how I got into architecture and I’ve often worked on boutique-type projects with an interest in design, so it’s only natural that I’ve followed this path into interiors.”
The reasons for considering an interior refurbishment are many.
There are practical considerations, when properties require updating purely to remain functional.
Then there are aesthetic and wellbeing concerns, where a change is needed to please the resident and ensure they are comfortable in their environment.
A refurbishment is also an investment, potentially adding significant value to a property if approached correctly.
“Number one on the list is an open-plan kitchen – that’s the thing that sells,” said Paul.
“It mustn’t look dated, it should be functioning well, organised, clean and designed with the right colours.
“The kitchen is the heart of everything and if visitors feel comfortable and welcome there, then that’s a real selling point.
“Then you have the living areas, the principal bedroom and the main bathroom.
Rebirth’s work includes the refurbishment of an apartment at Balluta Buildings in Malta
If there’s a guest bathroom, that’s a place to be a bit more adventurous and to go for a bold statement.
“At Rebirth we can tackle any one of these areas individually for a client or refurbish a whole property.
“If we are doing single rooms, then we will always make sure our design fits with the existing home.
“We also have to make sure our designs are sustainable and that the spaces we create look after us psychologically.”
The overriding theme that runs through the firm’s expansion is one of anticipation.
“We get so inspired when we’re discussing everything with our clients – especially when we’re working on a different style of project and creating a nice concept for them,” said Malcolm.
“In London, we’d love to do a Victorian house with a garden – a property with a lovely character.
“It would be a challenge, but we’d like that and we are able to offer landscaping too.”
Paul added: “We are, of course, a whole team. It’s not just two of us.
“But with every project we have grown and each new one is part of Rebirth’s creative development.”
- 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
“Value” is the topic on the lips of David Ronson, sales and marketing director at Avanton.
We’re talking about The BeCa, the first phase of the developer’s Ruby Triangle scheme, located in South Bermondsey just off the Old Kent Road.
This £150million red brick-clad structure takes its name and inspiration from the former industrial buildings of New York’s Tribeca neighbourhood – also the reason why it’s pronounced “becca” rather than “beaker”.
The 170 apartments available for private sale within, form part of the 1,400 homes that Avanton is set to build on the five-acre site.
It’s located around 22 minutes from Canary Wharf via bus and the Jubilee line from Canada Water, but could also be on the Tube if the mooted Bakerloo line extension to Lewisham is approved.
It’s a tough time for buyers and those selling property at the moment.
The cost of living crisis and high mortgage rates present a challenging landscape to those keen to get on the ladder and those servicing that market.
The BeCa is inspired by converted industrial buildings in New York
As a counterweight, Avanton has come up with London @Last, a three-part package of incentives aimed at first-time buyers to encourage them to purchase a home at The BeCa.
“We’re concerned with the domestic market because you want to build a place that has a community in it – somewhere that has a soul,” said David.
“If you sell everything to overseas investors, it has only transient tenants living there.
“Our Coda scheme in Battersea is rated as one of the best places to live in south-west London and that’s because it has a community of owner-occupiers.
“That’s what we want to do with all our developments.
“Typically first-time buyers are at a disadvantage when it comes to buying off-plan.
“The least expensive units typically offer the best rental yield for investors to pick up.
“But prospective owner-occupiers, especially those feeling the pressure of the cost of living crisis are not in a position to tie up money for long periods of time without the ability to access it.
“With some developers, that could be as much as 25% of the purchase price and that’s one of the reasons we’ve created London @ Last.”
One and two-bedroom apartments are available at the scheme
The incentives on offer are threefold, amounting to a possible £40,000 saving on a property.
Firstly, first-time buyers can exchange on a property with a 5% deposit under the scheme.
Secondly, Avanton will put in a further 5% and cover legal fees for buyers using its recommended solicitor.
This allows purchasers to take out 90% mortgages on the property rather than 95%.
Thirdly, the developer says it will guarantee a 4.99% interest-only mortgage for a year.
With rates coming down in any case, it will also likely reassess this to ensure it remains competitive.
Avanton will also pay 10% interest per year on deposit money it is holding, payable on completion.
“If your circumstances change prior to completion, we’ll give you back your money,” said David.
“If not, we’ll pay you better than a bank to hold the money for you and we’re only taking 5% as a deposit.
“It gives you the flex that, if something does happen, you have the ability to step out of the contract.”
An artist’s impression of a kitchen at The BeCa
With starting prices for one-beds at £450,000 and two-beds at £585,000, the package presents the possibility of significant savings on the initial cost of buying a home.
Avanton, however, isn’t only about deals in the short-term.
David said the design of The BeCa had taken into consideration what residents actually wanted from a home rather than stuffing it full of facilities they may not want to use or pay for through their service charge.
“We’ve been very conscious on this scheme regarding people’s affordability,” he said. “Some developers put in too many residential amenities within a block.
“We’re a little bit different. We look at what the key essentials are for people.
“At Coda, for example, we have some flexible workspace, meeting rooms, a small gym and a 24-hour concierge service as well as two podium gardens.
“We completed these and the service charge has now come in at about £6 per sq ft.
“If you look at the south-west market, that’s quite affordable in contrast to some developments with all the amenities under the sun, and the charge is around £13.
“If, before you’re even looking at the mortgage, you’re being hit with £10,000 of service charge a year, your average domestic buyer can’t afford it.
Many apartments will feature views over the London skyline
“That’s why some developments are primarily bought by investors from overseas who rent out these properties to transient tenants.
“It’s one of the reasons 80% of our Coda scheme was sold to owner-occupiers who want to live there and not feel like they are being charged for amenities they are not actually going to be using.
“This can be a deterrent for people considering buying into a scheme.
“With The BeCa, we’ve ensured the service charge is as low as it possibly can be.
“We’re looking at £4.27 per sq ft and that will have a day porter, about 2,000sq ft of flexible workspace and residents’ access to three roof terraces.
“In the current market, you have to look at specific locations where buyers can see real capital appreciation. Old Kent Road is the cheapest place you can buy in Zone 2.
“Ultimately Ruby Triangle will become an extension of London Bridge and Bermondsey, where you have some of the best lifestyle amenities in London.
“As the whole wider South Bermondsey regeneration takes place, you’ll see 20,000 new homes, 10,000 jobs, it’s going to change the place massively.”
Even with all that change, Avanton is also addressing any concerns about connectivity with a further incentive.
It’s offering buyers a free electric bike on completion, or the cash equivalent off the purchase.
- 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
“All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players.
“They have their exits and their entrances; and one man in his time plays many parts, his acts being seven ages”.
While it’s almost certain Jaques isn’t describing The Stage development in Shoreditch by Galliard Homes when he utters these words in Shakespeare’s As You Like It, they nevertheless resonate pretty well with the scheme.
Built on the site of the Bard’s Curtain Theatre whose remains were discovered during construction, the £750million, 37-storey tower has been seven years in the making rather than seven ages.
It does, however, boast entrances and exits – although they are among the least of the attractions in a building of many parts.
Its 412 apartments, ranging in size from studios to four-bedroom duplex penthouses sit atop a wealth of facilities in one of the capital’s most vibrant areas.
Prices start at £750,000 for a studio, £830,000 for a one-bed, £1.3millon for a two-bed and £2.5milion for a three-bed.
Prices for the penthouses have yet to be released, with rumours of a Valentine’s Day launch next year – apt, as the Curtain may well have been the site of the first performance of Romeo And Juliet.
During construction, archaeological evidence was uncovered indicating the area was very much a cultural quarter in Elizabethan times with Londoners in crowds of up to 1,400 flocking there to see plays such as Henry V, and to eat and drink.
As part of the development, the remains of The Curtain will be preserved as a major component of the new Museum Of Shakespeare, which is expected to open its doors next year.
The building has two basement levels of amenities
More immediately of concern, however, are the properties that tower above the forthcoming attraction.
Tucked away off Great Eastern Street, a five-minute walk from Liverpool Street, the structure offers impressive views over the surrounding area, especially to the north which has many buildings of lesser stature.
“The really good news here for buyers is that we’re finished,” said David Galman, sales director for The Stage.
“We offer a brilliant customer journey for people interested in making a purchase.
“When you’re selling off-plan, there’s less of a connection with the buyer.
“Here, there’s an opportunity to build a relationship – a proper viewing at The Stage is a minimum of an hour.”
That’s partly because there’s a lot to see.
The tower’s two basement levels offer some 13,700sq ft of space staffed by a dedicated games and amenities concierge to ensure services are running smoothly.
Facilities include a two-lane bowling alley, a golf simulator, a pool table, air hockey, table tennis and a selection of arcade games.
There’s also a 32nd floor sky bar, lounge and terrace for residents
There are also two screening rooms – both decorated with film posters of Shakespeare adaptations – a gym, changing rooms and a Yoga studio.
In addition, The Stage boasts a boardroom space and working facilities, including booths and a breakout area for use by residents.
Then there’s the 32nd floor sky lounge and terrace, complete with a bar and seating area. Various facilities can be booked by residents for private parties and events through the 24-hour concierge service.
“We always start by showing prospective buyers the amenity spaces,” said David.
“Today’s buyers want access to state-of-the-art amenities, and this is where The Stage stands out, with our underground amusement arcade, flexible workspaces and stunning sky terrace overlooking London.
“We are very proud to show the lifestyle on offer, an unparalleled experience in a sought-after location.
“Obviously, it’s a different conversation with an investor, who is primarily concerned with what a property will rent for and how much it’s likely to appreciate over time.
“But these properties have got to be among the easiest to let in London at the moment. You just show people the amenities on offer.”
Properties feature high-end interiors
As for the properties themselves, David said their size was a key selling point.
Each includes a private balcony, oak engineered flooring as well as brushed bronze and exposed brickwork details.
They boast mood lighting, multi-room speaker systems and bespoke entertainment units with 50” TVs and Sonos playbars.
Kitchens come with oak units, white quartz worktops and Miele integrated appliances.
Bathrooms feature ceramic herringbone tiles, white sanitaryware, Crittall-style shower doors and 22” TVs over the baths or in showers.
Bedrooms come with full height fitted wardrobes and, along with living areas, benefit from comfort cooling systems.
David said: “These properties and the communal areas of the building provide really great accommodation.
“That might suit a domestic buyer, but The Stage is in an international location.
“People come to live in London from around the UK and around the world.
“There are also students who come here with parents who can afford to purchase apartments like these.
Each apartment has a private balcony
“There are also three penthouses, which we’re not releasing to the market quite yet.
“They are fabulous too, extending to between 2,200sq ft to 2,600sq ft and they are all duplexes.
“Each has good outside space and they offer stunning views.”
The Stage is located on the edge of the City within easy walking distance of myriad amenities including Broadgate and Spitalfields.
Nearby Liverpool Street station offers a multitude of Tube and rail connections.
Total journey time to Canary Wharf is around 15 minutes via the Elizabeth Line.
- 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
New York City looms large in the imagination. It’s the smooth vocals of Alicia Keys on Empire State Of Mind, yellow taxis and the splash of water over Carrie Bradshaw.
It’s impossibly tall skyscrapers, hip-hop, Frank Sinatra, Gene Kelly and Jules Munshin playing over-excited sailors in On The Town.
It’s Central Park, Central Perk and the Ghostbusters piloting the Statue Of Liberty through Fifth Avenue.
Countless heroes and villains in every kind of drama have made it their home in literature, on stage and across screens big and small.
Often those characters are portrayed living in loft apartments – open spaces with high ceilings and large windows, typically featuring exposed brickwork and concrete, hinting at former lives as offices or places of industry.
London too has had a flush of such properties – albeit on a smaller scale – with warehouses, usually along the Thames, converted.
Many have that NYC-feel, with original features celebrated amid the sleek worktops of fitted kitchens and cleverly cantilevered mezzanines. They are now, however, few and far between for enthusiastic buyers.
Homes at 8 Harbord Square are completely open-plan in the style of New York lofts
It’s styled by Karakusevic Carson Architects as a brick-built structure that wouldn’t look out of place in New York’s meatpacking district – a chunk of the city that became a hotbed of fashion design, culture, dining and residential property in the 1990s and 2000s.
Its story – of industrial decline followed by regeneration – is not dissimilar to Canary Wharf’s.
The difference here, of course, is that 8 Harbord Square is newly built, with none of the potential problems of an industrial conversion but all of the style of a chic, period loft.
“There are 82 apartments in total, spread over 12 storeys and they are very different to anything that we’ve ever built or sold before,” said Melanie Conway, director of residential sales at Canary Wharf Group.
“We’ve stripped everything back, so there’s exposed brickwork and concrete ceilings – the decor is very raw – with huge Crittall windows to let lots of light in.
“There’s a real openness to the lofts.
“They are very unusual – buyers are used to seeing apartments with bedrooms and living spaces laid out.
“Here, it’s very much up to the buyer how they want to live in them.”
The majority of the building’s floors – excluding the penthouses which have already sold – are split into eight apartments in two configurations.
The Prospect Lofts are just over 800sq ft of open-plan, undivided space.
Each comes with a fully-fitted kitchen in stainless steel, with Siemens appliances including a built-in washer-dryer.
Heating comes from cast iron radiators arranged along the walls, while ceiling fans provide air circulation throughout.
The only walls are around the bathroom, which includes a black-framed shower cubicle, a free-standing bath and double sinks.
These properties are single aspect and are located in the centre of the building.
The Gramercy Lofts are similar in every respect, except that they extend to a little over 1,000sq ft and are arranged on the four corners of each floor with twice as many windows.
“We’ve been holding off on a big launch until the building is nearly finished, because the best way for buyers to understand these spaces is to walk into them,” said Melanie.
“We’re expecting people to be able to move in by the end of the year.
The building has been styled to echo properties in NYC’s meatpacking district
“It’s been very interesting to see who has bought here already – it’s a real mix from young couples to downsizers who love the warehouse style, and even students.
“It’s a design that appeals to lots of different people because you can move everything around.
“We could have dropped the ceilings and put in walls to create a typical layout, but we wanted to keep everything real.
“There’s not much decoration to be done and very little maintenance as there’s hardly any wall space that needs painting.
“The properties will also stand the test of time from a design-point of view – they won’t date.
“People buying here might be looking at older warehouses, but 8 Harbord Square is newly built so there won’t be unexpected leaks or any issues like that.
“They’re also really well insulated because they have been designed as homes. They are new, but also really cool.
“They’re very tranquil too, overlooking Harbord Square Park – an oasis of calm away from the bustle.”
The event runs for four days from September 20-23, 2023, with offers, pop-ups and installations.
V– SCROLL DOWN THE PAGE FOR A SELECTION OF OFFERS – V
“Wood Wharf feels very much like the residential district of Canary Wharf and, with 8 Harbord Square offering warehouse-style living, the takeover seemed like a great way to promote the building,” said Melanie.
“New York sits very well alongside the buildings here and on the estate as a whole.
“Right now it’s about awareness and it’s also an opportunity for people to discover what it’s like to live here.
“From the moment people leave one of our stations, the whole estate is managed by Canary Wharf Group.
The Prospect is the smaller of the two layouts stretching to 800sq ft
“There’s also security on site, 24-hours a day and a high level of cleanliness and service across the estate.
“Well known as a commercial area, for us it’s about communicating how much the Wharf has changed even since work began on Wood Wharf in 2015.
“People are now investing their time and money into coming to the estate as a leisure destination – the shops, the bars, the restaurants and so on.
“The transport is fantastic and, while people were initially buying here because they worked locally, we’re now seeing them make their home here and work elsewhere.
“People just love it.”
Show apartments at 8 Harbord Square are now available to view with prices for a Prospect apartment starting at £770,000.
Patty & Bun will be serving up its Classic American burger with a free cocktail for the takeover
AMERICANA ON THE WHARF
Mini Manhattan – that’s what they call the Isle Of Dogs – so what’s this takeover all about, anyways?
Wood Wharf is set to be transformed into the Big Apple for four days from September 20-23, 2023.
Running 11am-7pm, expect big yellow taxis, break dancers, chess tables in Harbord Square, a subway station and an authentic US school bus serving up hot dogs and pizza by the slice.
Have a nice day now.
In addition to the various special events that will be taking place over the four days, many of Wood Wharf’s businesses will be getting involved with the takeover, adding further layers to the immersive experience. Here are the deals to look out for:
Free Manhattan cocktail
Head down to the corner of Water Street and Park Drive, where Mallow will be adding a very special item to its entirely plant-based menu for the duration of the takeover.
Order its French Dip – featuring portobello mushrooms, caramelised red onion, horseradish cream, red wine jus and butter pickles – for £15 and you’ll receive a Chocolate Cherry Pie Manhattan for free to go with it.
The cocktail is made with Bourbon, Mozart dark chocolate liqueur, sour cherry molasses and bitters – for a potent take on a New York classic – and costs £9 on its own.
Mallow will have a French Dip on the menu with a free Chocolate Cherry Pie cocktail over the four days
Fresh gelato and cawfee
Downtown on George Street, visitors will find American flags draped over statues outside MMy Wood Wharf, which inside will be serving piccolo gelato cups with a single espresso for £5 during the takeover.
Mac ’n’ cheese will also be available, as will American craft beers including east coast brew Good Vibrations by NEPA for £7.90 per pint.
NYC flavours
Water Street’s Feels Like June is becoming Feels Like Brooklyn for the duration of the takeover and will be serving up NYC Bagels with pastrami, emmental cheese, pickles and mustard for £7 or with chives and cream cheese for £6.
The venue will also be hosting sets from its resident DJ from 4pm-9pm over the four days.
Free New York Sour
Order up the Classic American for £13 at Patty & Bun on Park Drive and customers will get either a free NY Sour or a can of Coca Cola with their burger.
Hawksmoor is serving three of the best sellers from its actual New York restaurant until Sept 24
Cocktails for £10 each + a free one
Drawing on inspiration from its actual New York branch, Hawksmoor and its bar The Lowback will be offering a trio of the best drinks available at its US location for the special price of £10 each.
So that’s the Manhattans, Cosmos and Dirty Martinis sorted.
But wait, there’s more.
The venues will also welcome tables of up to four guests with a complimentary Big Apple Martini for all diners at lunch or dinner.
Bookings should be made via email to thelowback@thehawksmoor.com quoting NYC x Canary Wharf. Better still, both offers will be available until September 24, 2023 – an extra day after the takeover ends.
Gelato pop-up
George Street restaurant Emilia’s Crafted Pasta is set to step outside its walls with a special pop-up throughout the takeover.
The venue’s gelato cart promises to serve up 100% Italian ice cream – one scoop for £4.50 and two for £6 in either waffle cones or paper cups.
Visitors can expect to choose from creamy mascarpone, Sicillian pistachio, raspberry sorbet and chocolate and hazelnut. There may even be a few bonus surprises from the staff.
The skincare, haircare, fragrance, candle and gift brand will be taking over a corner of Wood Wharf for the NYC event.
Founded in Chelsea (New York City) in 2004, the company aims to create products that will work with all skin types, growing and expanding over the years to meet demand.
For the takeover, its portable cart will be offering samples and cards offering discounts at its Canary Wharf store in Cabot Place. Naturally, terms and conditions apply.
- 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
A focus on affordability is the overall philosophy driving Fairview New Homes’ approach to its latest scheme in Woolwich.
Homes at Dock28 are set to become available at the south-east London site from August 19 and the developer has brought them forward with low price points and running costs very much in mind.
Comprising 216 apartments, split into studio, one, two and three-bedroom homes, the scheme is located on the banks of the disused Broadwater canal.
This once served the industrial operations of the Royal Arsenal and meets the Thames to the north.
Sited about 16 minutes’ walk to the east of both Woolwich Elizabeth Line station and Royal Arsenal DLR and rail station, future residents will benefit from the widespread regeneration of the area as well as the multitude of improvements to the historic town centre.
Such developments mean those buying at Dock28 will be within 15 minutes of numerous pubs, bars and restaurants as well as the extensive cultural space of Woolwich Works and the many shops of the High Street.
Fairview New Homes sales manager, Sohail Saiyed, said: “When you look at this development and the way we have approached it, it’s a very affordable option.
“It’s set within a really lovely area – when you look at what’s happened here over the past few years, I think the location massively benefits from the nearby regeneration.
“What we’re offering – when you look locally at how much apartments are being marketed for – is very good value with the guide price for a studio starting at £275,000, one-beds from £297,000, two-beds from £390,000 and three-beds from £475,000.”
Homes at Dock28 will be located beside the Broadwater canal
These prices are markedly lower than those in the likes of Royal Docks or the Isle Of Dogs, with buyers able to save tens of thousands of pounds on similar sized properties.
Prospective buyers can also look forward to lower service charges, with Fairview taking a pared down approach to on-site amenities in favour of lower bills for residents.
Sohail said: “There will be a communal residents’ garden as well as a roof terrace for people to use, but Fairview’s approach is to try to make the homes we build as affordable as possible both to buy and in terms of the service charge.
“Amenities like gyms and concierge services mean higher bills, but we still put security at the heart of our designs with a two-step entry system so packages and mail can be delivered safely to the blocks.”
The apartments themselves aren’t short on features either with private balconies and patio spaces offering outdoor space.
The three-bedroom duplexes at the scheme will extend to more than 1,000sq ft of internal space too.
Fairview is currently marketing one, two and three-bedroom homes
“You have large windows throughout the apartments, a white matte finish on the walls, with premium painted doors, chrome handles and sun-bleached oak Amtico flooring in the living areas and grey carpets in the bedrooms,” said Sohail.
“In the kitchens, there are quartz, salt-and-pepper, worktops with dove grey doors to the units, fully integrated appliances including fridge-freezers, induction hobs, electric ovens, wall-mounted microwaves and free standing washer dryers in the storage cupboards.”
Some properties feature views of the Thames, while others take in the Canary Wharf skyline to the west – a reminder perhaps that the estate can be reached in less than half an hour, door-to-door thanks to the arrival of Crossrail.
The DLR offers access to Royal Docks and London City Airport, while trains offer trips to Greenwich, Deptford and London Bridge – not to mention the nearby Uber Boat By Thames Clippers river bus.
- 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
