Successfully Improves Regional Character, Hawley Wharf Wins RIBA National Award 2022

Hawley Wharf is a redevelopment project of an abandoned site on the north bank of the Regent Canal, near the famous Camden Market, North London. By its architect, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, this project was designed as a collection of buildings with various functions, complete with public spaces and adequate road access.

The Regent Canal with Haw

Hawley Wharf on its north bank. (Image courtesy of Timothy Soar)

Interestingly, each building in Hawley Wharf can stand up to its character and is skilled at responding to its context. Due to the scheme that emphasizes diversity and harmony, this redevelopment project has also succeeded in enhancing the character of the local area. Then, it was also what made Hawley Whorf win the RIBA National Award 2022.

A view of Hawley Wharf from the edge of the canal, with each building having its character. (Image courtesy of Timothy Soar)

The diversity of buildings at Hawley Wharf can be seen from their respective plans. (Image courtesy of AHMM Architects)

Architects who are involved in the master planning stage until its completion, admit that this project does require extra attention, as the community also feels worried. Because, from the client's side, they have a long-term vision which is to turn this large site into a living, multi-purpose development product. As a result, a major challenge arose for the architects, namely the task of regaining the trust of the local community. In addition, the Hawley Wharf project also bears hope, balancing the needs of residents and visitors of Camden Market's enormous potential.

The elementary school that is part of Hawley Wharf. (Image courtesy of Timothy Soar)

Based on all that, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM) Architects also offers a space hierarchy solution, which can position the visitor center to the right point near the canal. That way, community-oriented buildings such as schools and housing can be better maintained on the north side. For information, in addition to elementary schools and affordable housing, within the Hawley Wharf area there are also retail units, workspaces, workshops, cinemas, and new market buildings. Coupled with three new public spaces and road connections that have been established, Hawley Wharf can then provide considerable social value.

People pass through the buildings in the Hawley Wharf-area. (Image courtesy of Timothy Soar)

Values ​​beyond just new schools and social housing, but also support for the local economy through the provision of new workplaces and opportunities. Furthermore, this development project also does not forget to improve and prioritize the public sphere at every opportunity. For example by providing additional pedestrian routes to increase site-wide links. It is the integration of new spaces and buildings that we hope will be useful and enjoyable for many years to come.

Site plan of the Hawley Wharf. (Image courtesy of AHMM Architects)

Ground floor plan of the Hawley Wharf. (Image courtesy of AHMM Architects)

References:

Hawley Wharf - RIBA National Award 2022

Hawley Wharf by AHMM Architects