Hackney Wick, a vibrant and creative area in East London, is set to welcome a new co-living development after receiving approval from the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC). This exciting project, led by investor Mitheridge and developer Halcyon, will deliver 337 co-living homes in two modern blocks located along the canalside at 115-119 Wallis Road. The development is set to transform the waterside location, which currently houses three low-rise warehouses, into a thriving residential and commercial hub.
The co-living scheme will feature a mix of five- and eight-storey blocks, offering studio apartments designed for individuals who value a community-oriented lifestyle. In addition to the private living spaces, residents will have access to shared amenities, encouraging a sense of community and fostering social connections. The development also plans to include a canal-side café, creating a vibrant public space for both residents and locals to enjoy, as well as affordable workspaces on the ground floor, contributing to Hackney Wick’s already dynamic and entrepreneurial spirit.
Hugh Queenan, residential lead at Morris & Co, the architects behind the design, emphasized the importance of blending the innovative co-living concept with Hackney Wick’s unique character. “The scheme’s design has been shaped with the vibrant character of Hackney Wick in mind, blending innovative co-living with dynamic public areas and creative enterprise,” said Queenan. The project aims to enhance the local area by introducing new spaces for living, working, and socializing, all while respecting the neighborhood’s rich industrial heritage and artistic community.
Halcyon’s Co-Living Expansion Across London
This is not the first co-living venture for Halcyon, which has been actively developing similar projects across London and the South East. In 2022 and 2023, the developer completed more than 800 co-living homes, including a 270-home project in Battersea designed by Assael Architecture. Halcyon has ambitious plans to expand its portfolio, with 1,700 more co-living homes in the pipeline across key locations in London.
Co-living has become a popular solution for urban living, particularly in cities like London, where affordable housing remains a significant challenge. By offering smaller private living spaces alongside shared amenities, co-living developments cater to a growing demand for flexible, affordable, and community-focused living arrangements. These schemes are especially attractive to young professionals, freelancers, and creatives who prioritize both convenience and community in their housing choices.
Hackney Wick: A Hub for Creativity and Innovation
Hackney Wick has long been recognized as a cultural and creative hub, known for its industrial past and its transformation into a lively area filled with artists, startups, and creative enterprises. The new co-living scheme will seamlessly integrate into the neighborhood, offering much-needed housing while preserving the area’s distinctive atmosphere.
The addition of affordable workspaces within the development will support Hackney Wick’s reputation as a center for creativity and innovation. By providing spaces for local entrepreneurs and startups to grow, the project aligns with the area’s ongoing regeneration, which aims to balance new developments with the preservation of Hackney Wick’s artistic and cultural heritage.
The Future of Co-Living in London
Co-living developments like the one in Hackney Wick represent a growing trend in London’s housing market. As the city grapples with housing shortages and rising property prices, co-living offers an innovative solution that meets the needs of a diverse range of residents. By combining private living spaces with shared amenities and communal areas, these developments foster a sense of community that traditional housing often lacks.
Hackney Wick’s new co-living scheme is expected to be a game-changer for the area, contributing to its ongoing transformation into one of London’s most exciting neighborhoods. The development’s focus on providing affordable, flexible housing options, alongside vibrant public spaces and creative work environments, highlights the future direction of urban living.
With Halcyon’s track record of successful co-living projects and the unique charm of Hackney Wick, this latest development is poised to become a sought-after destination for those looking for an affordable and community-oriented lifestyle in East London. As co-living continues to gain momentum, projects like this demonstrate the potential for innovative housing solutions to reshape how we live in modern cities.
