Goat Wharf

Located in a desirable location next to the River Thames and opposite the World Heritage Site of Kew Gardens, BPTW developed proposals recognizing the unique location and setting of the site. The architecture is carefully crafted resulting in a building which offers stunning views towards Kew and across the Thames. 

The riverside setting is contrasted by the elevation along the high street which was inspired by the wharf architecture of traditional river and canal side warehouses, with brick piers punctured by deep-set windows and metal panels. With commercial office space, 89 apartments and basement parking, the waterfront development transforms the north bank of the Thames. 

The site slopes down from the high street to the river and so the development incorporates a basement that is ‘cut-in’ to the high side of the site with the high street retained by a contiguous piled wall which extends downwards towards the Thames.

Manhire Associates were appointed by Allen-build in early 2012 and began by appraising the particular challenges posed by the development. Working closely with BPTW, Manhire Associates developed efficient solutions to support the large pointed cantilever balconies which were a key feature of the architecture. The relationship with the external wall and developing brick support and joint details that were sympathetic with the supporting structure was critical. Detailed deflection studies were undertaken accommodating various alternatives to satisfy insulation and thermal break requirements. 

The team recognized the importance in understanding the different materials adopted in the façades early on in the design process with generous full height windows in large brick panels, with set-backs and large cantilevers, angled balconies etc.

The development required enhance flood defense measures and proposals were developed that became an opportunity to reduce the amount of excavated spoil exported off site to ‘land-fill’. Some off-site highway improvements were also designed on the corner of Goat Wharf and the High Street.

Amenity space is provided with a landscaped central piazza offering residents a private courtyard space. The development was completed in early 2014.