Assael secures approval for co-living scheme at Beresford Square
Planning permission has been granted for a 156-unit co-living scheme at Beresford Square in Woolwich, marking a new phase in the evolution of the historic market square within the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
Designed by Assael Architecture, with Assael Exteriors, for Packaged Living and joint venture partner Buccleuch Property, the project will see the redevelopment of a vacant office building on a prominent corner site facing the square, which has hosted Woolwich Market for more than 400 years.
The proposals provide much needed residential use while reinforcing the square’s civic character with a publicly accessible restaurant fronting Beresford Square, extending activity throughout the day and evening. Resident amenities include co-working areas, a gym and wellness studio, communal lounges and a rooftop terrace overlooking the market.
Contextual massing and heritage setting
Located on the boundary of the Conservation Area, the scheme has been designed to respond to the scale and material character of its surroundings, including the adjacent Gatehouse and surrounding heritage fabric.
The building’s massing has been articulated to reduce its impact on key views and reinforce the spatial enclosure of the square. The architectural language draws on the material palette of the conservation area, with detailing intended to reference the character of the historic market buildings in a contemporary way.
Beresford Square signage is integrated within the road facing elevation, with lettering that references historic signage present around the square, reinforcing local identity.
Co-living model
The 156 studio units are designed around a co-living model that combines private accommodation with extensive shared facilities. The scheme is positioned as part of a broader diversification of Woolwich’s housing offer, following significant regeneration in the area over the past decade.
This marks the fifth co-living scheme by Assael to secure planning consent in the past two years, following approvals at Eynsham Drive, Brent Cross and Chiswick Tower, further consolidating the practice’s growing portfolio in the sector.
Emily Newton, Director at Assael Architecture, said
“We are delighted to have supported Packaged Living and Buccleuch in bringing forward this co-living scheme for Beresford Square. Developed in close collaboration with the council and Historic England, the design responds carefully to the site’s sensitive heritage context and key views, reinforcing this important corner of the square while contributing to Woolwich’s ongoing regeneration”.