Queen Elizabeth Street, London

“The 80s were a time when the exuberant promise of the swinging 60s came to fruition in architecture” - Piers Gough

This striking apartment sits within The Circle; an iconic Grade II-listed building built in the late 1980s to the design of prominent architect Piers Gough of CZWG. Occupying a highly sought-after position on the banks of the River Thames, the building is an arresting example of postmodern architecture, with its dramatic proportions and extraordinary cobalt-blue façade. Inside, contemporary additions enhance bright, light-filled spaces and a balcony overlooks the landscaped communal gardens.

The Building

Piers Gough studied at the Architectural Association and co-founded CZWG in 1975 with Nick Campbell, Rex Wilkinson and Roger Zogolovich. He was awarded a CBE in 1998 and is widely regarded as one of Britain's leading postmodernist architects, combining a sophisticated, consistent understanding of architectural tradition alongside bold, geometric gestures and resourceful use of building materials.

The Circle had hosted London’s largest 19th-century warehouse complex, including a flour mill, cooperage, oil and colour works and stabling for Courage’s Brewery. Recognised as a pioneering hallmark of the 1980s regeneration of Docklands, the building juxtaposes references to neighbouring warehouses – notably the area’s 19th-century dye and paint works – with an arresting blue glazed brick façade and four curved quadrants.

The Tour

Entry is through a delightfully angular lobby with a sculpted solid-wood reception desk and distinctive modern interiors. The apartment lies on the first floor, via an impressive staircase with white-veined black marble dressings and metal handrails, and there is lift access. A 24-hour concierge service manages the building.

Inside, a decidedly atmospheric hallway opens to an open-plan kitchen-living area, with black-painted walls and dark-stained floorboards underfoot. A monochromatic palette delineates the bespoke kitchen from the living space; matte-black cabinetry is complemented by bronze quartz countertops, with integrated appliances and a built-in wine cooler. The living room is a bright counterpoint: white-painted walls are enhanced by full-height glazed doors that open onto a private balcony.

An adjacent bedroom is discreetly placed behind a high-end crafted media wall, with shaker-style wardrobes and a broad window that draws in southerly light. Just off the hallway, a bathroom has a generous walk-in shower enclosed by powder-pink-coloured tiling.

Outdoor Space

The beautifully landscaped communal gardens are arranged at the rear of the building. Behind a stock-brick rear elevation bordered by abundant planting and mature trees, the gardens create a peaceful continuation of the home. There are allocated underground parking spaces and private on-site gym memberships.

The Area

Queen Elizabeth Street occupies an enviable position, moments from the banks of the River Thames. A 20-minute stroll east leads to the open green spaces of King’s Stairs Gardens, from which the larger Southwark Park sits just below.

Bermondsey Street is a 10-minute walk west and is home to the White Cube gallery, the Giddy Grocer, and numerous cafes, bars and restaurants. Nearby Tanner Street Park has community tennis courts, while the popular Leathermarket Street is close by.

Queen Elizabeth Street is well placed for public transport: London Bridge Station (Jubilee and Northern lines and National Rail services) is a 10-minute walk to the west, and Tower Hill Station (District and Circle lines) is a short walk across Tower Bridge.

Tenure: Leasehold / Lease Length: 985 years remaining / Ground rent: £400 / Service Charge: approx. £3900 per annum