Whitechapel Estate - Architecture Today
Issue 233
November 2012
Text Architecture Today
Images Níall McLaughlin Architects
This proposed development at Peabody’s Whitechapel Estate in east London completes an ensemble of six housing blocks surrounding an internal courtyard, the original block having been destroyed during the second world war. The proposal aims to respect the massing and characteristics of the existing buildings on the estate and continues the idea of ‘open corners’, promoting easy pedestrian access and views between the courtyard and the surrounding streets.
The design takes cues from the Peabody blocks designed by Henry Darbishire in the 1870s. Deep, white concrete reveals around windows and balconies contrast with the charcoal-coloured stock-brick facade and provide space for planters on the cills. A naturally-lit winding staircase provides access into the 13 affordable one, two, three and four-bed units.