Limehouse

Ratcliffe Cross Street

Also known as the Kiln Works, this highly complex site in inner London was designed by Hunters for Notting Hill Genesis. Hunters were not only original planning architects, we provided full team services as Principal Designer, Employers Agent and Cost Consultant on the scheme. Nestled within the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, the flats are 40% affordable and are located within the heart of a busy East End community. The site is surrounded by a mixture of industrial buildings, a railway and other newly built developments.

The outcome is 77 new homes including 11 shared ownership, 23 affordable rent and 43 private sale, housed within two buildings six and eight storeys high. Cycle parking, a protected roof top children’s play area and easy access to the DLR are part of its attraction. 

The project had several design challenges. Perhaps the most significant was designing enclosed balconies using a high-tech stainless-steel protective mesh barrier due to the proximity of the railway line and the high-powered cable that runs over the viaduct. This elevated railway line on a brick viaduct created serious build requirements from Network Rail with regards to working next to their land.

The project included major consultation ensuring all stakeholders were identified and included in the planning and delivery process as early as possible. The groups were residents of neighbouring buildings, occupiers of existing buildings to be demolished and local business owners. The process included ensuring that access for residents and local businesses could be maintained during the works.

Once works were underway on-site Hunters worked alongside Guildmore to agree what information residents should be made aware of to advise them of any upcoming construction works.  Regular meetings were also to understand any issues and concerns.