First Home For Architect In South East London

Dartford local, Chris, is an architect with a keen eye for design, and was eager to get onto the property ladder close to his family home in South East London, after living with his parents for three years to save up for his deposit.

Chris came across Southmere early in his house hunt. He was impressed and quickly arranged a viewing to find out more about the lakeside Peabody development.

He says: “I went straight down to the marketing suite and had a look at the model and show apartment. As an architect, I was immediately impressed by the design and layout of the apartments at Southmere. One of the biggest attractions for me was the large balcony, which is more than twice the size it would typically be. The balcony is also inset, which means I can use it all year round. The development also offered an opportunity to get a great view of the city, looking west for evening sunsets, and being high up means I have an amazing view.”

Southmere is the first phase of Peabody’s ambitious redevelopment of the iconic Thamesmead area, offering buyers the chance to live in the district famed for its brutalist architecture and silver screen appearances. Transforming the area into a new town for the capital, alongside a wide range of homes, there will be an array of independent shops, restaurants and cafes on the newly opened Cygnet Square, as well as The Nest, home to a public library and community space.

Homes are set alongside Southmere Lake, which is currently undergoing a £2.5m renovation to include a new fishing platform and Boat Club which offers paddleboarding and kayaking. Thamesmead has a remarkable and completely unique landscape, with an abundance of green open space and aquatic environments including lakes and waterways. With the neighbourhood offering over 240 hectares of parks and green space, five lakes, and seven kilometres of canals, residents will enjoy more than double the amount of green space per person than the London average – something that was a key selling point for Chris.

“I was immediately drawn to the lake and multiple parks, which I know is so rare to have on your doorstep in London, especially in a new development. As a keen runner, the prospect of running around the lake and Lesnes Abbey ruins was also a key selling point.” 

Through London Help to Buy, Chris was able to purchase a one-bedroom apartment at Southmere. Alongside the contemporary design and high quality finish to each home, Chris and his new neighbours will also have access to a fantastic array of amenities, set to open early 2023.  

“I thought the layout and finish of the flat was great and I appreciated the quality of the appliances included as standard. Having underfloor heating, and so not having the clutter of radiators, was also a real bonus for me. I’m also looking forward to using the amenities once they arrive at Southmere, including the concierge service, residents’ lounge and co-working space.”

Already making the most of the quicker commute into central London now the Elizabeth Line has opened at nearby Abbey Wood Station, Chris feels at home in his Peabody apartment – and is keen to meet his neighbours.

“I am excited to finish furnishing my apartment and watch the neighbourhood continue to thrive and grow. As the new public square comes to life with restaurants, shops, events, and the new facilities on the lake are delivered, I look forward to enjoying living in Southmere as much as I already do.”­

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