Fresh Wharf, Barking
Our Projects
Fresh Wharf, Barking
Overview
Fresh Wharf is a multi-phase redevelopment scheme based in Barking, London. Designed by FRA Architects and housebuilder Countryside Properties, the development was supported by Notting Hill Housing with the aim to bring much-needed residential and commercial units to the area. The scheme now provides 532 homes, plus a work-from-home hub and gym for residents.
Vobster Architectural were pleased to manufacture and supply Portland wet cast stone for planter walls and stairs used as part of the landscaping of the site, working with Lee Marley Brickwork who beautifully completed all the installation. The cast stone brings a clean elegance to the modern residential towers.
Concept to Completion
The development mixes residential buildings, townhouses and towers that rise to 15 storeys. Overlooking the River Roding, the site provides new walking routes and pleasant communal spaces for local residents to enjoy. Each residential block is connected by a series of podium gardens, featuring cast stone planters, which double as outdoor seating. A car park is hidden beneath the podium gardens, creating an attractive solution for the additional parking required by new residents.
Cast stone works beautifully for landscaping as it is hard-wearing and can be easily maintained to keep external areas in optimal condition for longer. The planter walls featured in the podium gardens are large reinforced precast elements that were resin-bolted down to the footings. The footings were cast level, meaning the walls slope in alignment with the changing ground level and produce planters that undulate with the surrounding environment for an integrated space.
When designing the cast stone panels for the stairs, our team had to consider the treads required for slip-resistance to make sure our product met all the necessary building regulation standards. The result is a striking entrance to the site, proving cast stone can work well across diverse applications.
Following the success of the first phase, two more phases of development for Fresh Wharf are currently underway to extend the commercial and residential opportunities for Barking. Find out more about the bespoke capabilities of cast stone here.
Project partners
