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In all units, the interior finishes are designed to the developer's standards, not the architect's. The interiors are plainly decorated in neutral colors, with basic open-plan kitchens and modern bathrooms. Surprisingly, the privately owned units are marginally smaller than the subsidized housing, and Keating acknowledges that the council has strict size and area regulations while the private housing is "dictated by the market."

The development, the final phase of which opened in January 2006, has yet to attract tenants for its live/work or commercial ground-floor units, and these sit empty, overlooking the well used public promenade. There is no doubt that there will be a demand for cafes and shops here once the projected regeneration takes hold in the area.

At this writing, Abbotts Wharf is the only part of the planned regeneration projects in this area that has actually been built. Implementation of the new master plan, which features a series of taller, landmark buildings around the park, is still in its infancy. Keating is enthusiastic about the effects the proposed master plan will have on the relationship between Abbotts Wharf, the nearby park, and neighborhood as a whole.

Across from this new housing, a derelict 1960s concrete apartment block awaits demolition to allow the park to expand closer to the site. This pioneering project is a signal of things to come.

Following this trend, the tallest, (wholly privately owned) block at Abbotts Wharf overlooks Bartlett Park, and has full-width glazing that wraps uninterrupted around three sides of the living rooms. On the interior, the finishes are slightly more exclusive than in the other three buildings, with wood-laminate floors instead of carpet and more expensive bathrooms and kitchens.

Terri Whitehead is a writer and designer based in London.

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New public space between the buildings of Abbotts Wharf, a housing development by architects Jestico + Whiles. Photo: David Churchill The highest tower sits in an underdeveloped area making it look even taller than its 13 floors. Photo: Brady Peters Private courtyards are created for residents atop a stone plinth. Photo: David Churchill The view from private courtyards up to the highest building. Photo: Brady Peters Generous glazed balconies. Photo: Brady Peters Private glazed balconies give views over east London. Photo: David Churchill   Click on thumbnail images to view full-size pictures.