We’ve been back in Hackney Wick and Fish Island! Working with dRMM, this detailed planning application for a mixed use development for Taylor Wimpey takes its cues from Fish Island’s jagged roof lines, brick-built factories, eclectic street scene and the outstanding planting at neighbouring Queen Elizabeth II Olympic Park.

The site sits right next to the Fish Island Conservation Area – the yard cuts through the buildings and reinstates a view to the old Broadwoods Piano Factory. Simple, robust materials inspired by traditional London yards and the light tree canopies of Gleditsia leave room for site occupants to personalise the edges and inhabit the space.

Through an exterior staircase, residents’ gardens at podium level can be accessed from the street. Big concrete pipe sections are used in various guises – as objects of play and as planters. Other industrially inspired play elements scatter through each space, whilst residents are encouraged to bring their own pots and plants out into the shared gardens.

The site’s best assets are the huge London Plane trees that line Monier Road and Beachy Road. Residents walk amongst the canopies in their elevated gardens whilst seasonal change is introduced through new additions of Liquidamabar, Pawlownia, Liriodendron and Ostrya trees.