In London, a new neighbourhood is taking shape on former industrial properties just east of the decommissioned Battersea Power Station. The first phase of residential development has already been completed by a joint partnership between EcoWorld and Ballymore, and now the second phase has moved into the construction stage. The multi-tower project is situated next to a new cube-shaped United States embassy, which inspired the name for the residential portion dubbed Embassy Gardens.
Illustrations of the project depict a trio of L-shaped towers over 20 storeys tall. Each tower is attached to a smaller ten-storey block, two of which will be connected by an innovative suspended pool. The first of its kind in the world, the entirely transparent pool will allow residents to swim between the two buildings 35 metres above ground. For the less daring, the pool deck will be connected to additional amenity spaces which include a private gym and yoga studio, a boxing ring, a private cinema, and a library. A rooftop sky deck features a spa, summer bar, and orangery with stunning views of the London skyline and Houses of Parliament.
Linking the new district to its neighbouring areas, a ribbon of green space will run from Vauxhall to Battersea Park. It will include a number of al fresco areas and sculptures to add visual interest to the corridor. Enhancing pedestrian connectivity even further, a bridge to the dense districts of Belgravia and Pimlico on the north bank of the River Thames has been proposed.
Arup Associates is designing the second phase, which will incorporate a red brick facade reminiscent of New York's meatpacking district. Inside, floor-to-ceiling glass windows bathe the white oak veneers and stainless steel kitchens of every unit in sunlight. Buyers can watch their homes come together, as the concrete cores of the under-construction towers are making a big impact from several viewpoints. In the image below, the residential buildings can be seen climbing in the middle, while to the right, the United States embassy assumes its boxy form.
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