"Inspired by the industrial wharf warehouses of the surrounding vernacular lining Union Street Canal"
With its uninterrupted views across Union Street Canal and Victoria Park, this light-filled two-bedroom apartment cuts a striking profile on Old Ford Road in Bow. Recipient of the Housing Design Award, the scheme was designed by PH+ Architects in 2020. Defined by its rhythmic forms and a red brick gabled façade, the building was inspired by the industrial wharf warehouses of the surrounding vernacular. Balconies on each floor ensure constant dialogue with the outside, while a roof terrace presents a breathtaking vista. The apartment is positioned a short walk from the popular Victoria Park Village, with its plethora of independent shops, cafés and restaurants.
The Tour
The entrance to the apartment lies on the ground floor, where a private front door opens onto a bright lobby area with a staircase ahead.
The living spaces unfold across the entirety of the first floor. Internal glazing within the hallway allows natural light to permeate deep into the plan, care of the double-height, single-paned glazed doors that dominate the rear elevation in the reception room. Split levels add a sense of volume here, further emphasised by the soaring ceilings that continue across this floor. The interior spaces have been decorated with a light touch, providing a simple and subtle setting for the spectacular views beyond. Light oak floorboards traverse the length of the space, creating a sense of continuity and flow throughout.
A fully integrated kitchen lies adjacent, where minimal white cabinetry contrasts with black quartz and colourful terrazzo worktops. Further storage lies neatly in the alcoves. There is also a WC on this floor.
Two well-proportioned double bedrooms lie another level up, both with generous windows, plenty of storage space and en suite bathrooms. The main bedroom sits at the rear, where sliding glazed doors open onto a balcony with leafy views across the canal and treetops beyond. The roof terrace can be reached through a large skylight, via a separate internal staircase.
The apartment also has an extensive loft space for additional storage.
Outdoor Space
The apartment has a generous provision of outdoor space in the form of two balconies and a roof terrace, purposefully designed to maximise the rear views over Union Street Canal and the green swathes of Victoria Park. Decking lies underfoot in all, while the balconies are partly enclosed to provide shade and a greater sense of privacy.
The Area
Old Ford Road is positioned at the edge of Victoria Park and is only a short walk to Victoria Park Village, with its wonderful food and drink scene. Neighbourhood favourites include The Ginger Pig Butcher, Gail’s and Pophams bakeries, Bottle Apostle and Jonathan Norris Fishmongers. Ombra, Bistrothequeand The Approach Tavern are also in close proximity. Victoria Park itself is bound on two sides by canals: Regent’s Canal lies to the west, while Hertford Union Canal runs along the southern edge. Broadway Market is a 20-minute walk away along Regent’s Canal.
The closest tube stations, Bethnal Green (Central Line) and Mile End (Central, Hammersmith & City and District Lines), are both a 10-15 minute walk away and offer connections citywide. Cambridge Heath Overground is also a 10-15-minute walk away, with direct services to Liverpool Street and to north-east London. There are excellent bus links into central and east London, with a direct bus from Victoria Park to Canary Wharf taking about 20 minutes. There is also a Santander cycle hire station close at hand.
Tenure: Share of Freehold
Lease Length: approx. 996 years
Service Charge: approx. £650 per annum
Council Tax Band: F
Please note that all areas, measurements and distances given in these particulars are approximate and rounded. The text, photographs and floor plans are for general guidance only. The Modern House has not tested any services, appliances or specific fittings — prospective purchasers are advised to inspect the property themselves. All fixtures, fittings and furniture not specifically itemised within these particulars are deemed removable by the vendor.