Two new residential buildings and a green public space, central to the 23-acre Wood Wharf master plan, have recently been completed. 3 & 15 West Lane consists of two main buildings, which house an aparthotel and the surrounding public realm.
The buildings are situated in ‘The Lanes’, designed to offer car-free streets lined with independent shops, pocket parks, and eateries. Granted planning approval in 2019, 3 & 15 West Lane feature a mix of retail outlets and restaurants on the ground floor, with an aparthotel from the first floor upwards. Communal amenities for guests include lounges, co-working spaces, private dining areas, a gym, and three roof terraces. Operated by CWG’s build-to-rent division, Vertus, these buildings are the first in a new product line for the Group called Vertus Edit.
The design pays homage to the lost warehouse architecture, now recognised as a vital part of Canary Wharf’s heritage. Historically, the area comprised a series of basins, locks, and docks constructed in the 19th century when London served as a major port and the Isle of Dogs was central to Britain’s shipping industry. The facade mainly features brickwork, complemented by pre-cast concrete string courses, cills, lintels, and capitals.
The apartments, suitable for both short and long stays, are part of the 297-unit aparthotel development. Created in response to the client’s ‘Fun and Flair’ brief, the interior design concept is inspired by Wes Anderson’s cinematic style, resulting in a lively and characterful interior. The curated material palette features a distinctive rippled fabric wall at the entrance lobby, combining tactile appeal with retro and modern influences. Inside, the apartments provide a tranquil retreat with bespoke joinery, fully equipped kitchens, and smart bathroom suites that maximise space and comfort. The scheme includes private dining rooms, co-working areas, residents’ lounges, and terraces, offering a versatile, amenity-rich living environment that reflects the broader Wood Wharf community.
The public realm around 3 & 15 West Lane supports year-round activity, enables a wide range of public use, and contributes to biodiversity, wellbeing, and the evolving neighbourhood character of Wood Wharf. Connecting the buildings to Union Square and Bellevue Place, the landscape supports the walkable, car-free environment and provides active frontage for ground-floor retail, entrances, and amenity spaces.
Union Square is a versatile, multi-use public space designed for at least five years of interim use. It includes a central, hard-surfaced area for exhibitions and seasonal events, bordered by planted edges, a timber deck, and spaces to sit and gather. A raised terrace next to the event space features bleacher seating, edible plants, catenary lighting, and views across the square. Opposite, facing north, an informal play area is set within naturalistic planting and a subtly undulating landscape.
The generous space is designed for both programmed and casual use, accommodating public markets, small performances, art displays, and informal interactions. A straightforward palette of materials includes resin-bound gravel, timber decking, granite kerbs, and metal edging, supporting clarity and step-free access throughout.
Planting delineates spaces and softens edges, with trees selected for seasonal interest and shade. Beds combine ornamental and shade-tolerant species with understorey mixes that support biodiversity. Several pedestrian routes cross the square improving wider access through the neighbourhood and creating dramatic long views across Canary Wharf. Rooftop terraces at 15 West Lane provide further communal space with views, raised planters, and integrated lighting.
Wood Wharf is the newest neighbourhood in Canary Wharf, and once complete, will provide up to 3,600 new homes, 2 million sq ft of office space, 350,000 sq ft retail space, and more than 9 acres of public spaces, squares, and parks, along with a GP surgery and school.
3 & 15 West Lane
Location: London, UK.
Landscape Architect: HTA Design
Client: Canary Wharf Group
Images Credit: Kilian O’Sullivan