Award winning architect, Patel Taylor, revealed its latest contribution to London’s riverscape, Lombard Wharf. Designed for Barratt London, the impressive development sits on one of the last remaining riverfront sites in the London Borough of Wandsworth, south London. 

The building, with a distinctive tear-drop shaped plan, appears to twist as it rises, thanks to subtle changes in the positioning of the white precast-concrete balconies. This creates a kinetic appearance, which belies the use of repeating modules, giving the impression that the freestanding structure is carved out of stone. 

Lombard Wharf is located on York Way, neighbouring smart Battersea Square. The 28-storey building comprises 134 one, two, and three-bedroom homes, alongside a newly planned footbridge and part of the Thames path.

By creating an elegantly unusual form and opening up the surrounding area and public realm through an imaginative approach to landscape, the development has been praised by Wandsworth Council for its flattering and unique design. 

Unlike most riverside developments, Lombard Wharf does not have a discernible front or back. ‘Riverfront buildings have a propensity to face the water’, said Pankaj Patel, director at Patel Taylor. ‘We wanted Lombard Wharf to look equally attractive from every view point, acting as a marker on the river whilst not turning its back onto the city.’

By giving the building a curved form, Patel Taylor has grounded it in its site, creating a sense of place. This is enhanced by the opening up of two adjacent railway arches, linking two sides of the railway line.