Union Wharf N1

Union Wharf, Wenlock Basin, N1

A rare balance of architectural integrity, waterside calm and immediate access to Angel, Old Street and the City.

Positioned on the quiet curve of Wenlock Road overlooking Wenlock Basin, Union Wharf is one of N1’s most distinctive canal-side addresses. Built on the former Royle Print Works, the development draws on industrial modernism, combining warehouse-scale proportions with refined, minimalist detailing.

This is design-led living beside the canal.

The Building

Set on a secluded no-through road opposite Shepherdess Walk Park and moments from Regent’s Canal, Union Wharf is defined by exposed concrete, galvanised steel and expansive glazing. The aesthetic is confident and restrained, celebrating its industrial heritage while delivering contemporary comfort.

Residents benefit from:

• Daytime concierge/porter
• Lift access to all floors
• Secure electric-gated entrance
• Bike storage
• Exclusive access to a private canal-side path
• Communal and private outdoor space
• Resident permit parking (secure spaces available by negotiation)

A dramatic central atrium creates a strong architectural arrival, establishing the building’s character from the outset.

The Apartments

Homes at Union Wharf are defined by volume, structure and natural light. Selected apartments feature double-height ceilings of approximately 4.5 metres, exposed structural pillars and concrete soffits, creating a genuine loft-style atmosphere rarely found in newer developments.

Full-width Crittall-style glazing draws light deep into open-plan interiors, while west and south-west facing balconies stretch across the façade, overlooking Wenlock Basin and mature lime, silver birch and oak trees.

Interiors typically include:

• Open-plan living and dining areas
• Integrated kitchens with timber worktops and streamlined cabinetry
• Mezzanine bedrooms with glass balustrades
• Walk-in wardrobes and generous storage
• Polished concrete, resin or hardwood flooring
• Architecturally designed staircases
• Minimal, monochrome palettes
• Several apartments have been redesigned by leading interior studios, incorporating bespoke lighting, polished plaster and contemporary surface finishes while respecting the building’s architectural language.
• Ceiling height and structural rhythm allow for flexible layouts - ideal for hybrid working, creative studio space or generous entertaining.

Specification & Practical Considerations

Apartments benefit from modern glazing and efficient heating systems integrated discreetly into the industrial aesthetic. Many homes include:

• Underfloor heating or contemporary radiators
• High-spec integrated appliances
• Secure video entry systems
• Fibre broadband connectivity
• Well-proportioned bathrooms with stone or tiled finishes

The building is professionally managed and well maintained, reinforcing its long-term appeal.

The Setting: Wenlock Basin & Beyond

Union Wharf sits between Islington, Shoreditch, Clerkenwell and the City - a rare pocket that feels both tucked away and deeply connected.

The Regent’s Canal towpath runs directly beside the building, offering scenic walking and cycling routes west towards Angel, King’s Cross and Camden, and east towards London Fields and Victoria Park.

Life around Wenlock Basin unfolds at a gentler rhythm. Morning light reflects across the water as joggers and cyclists pass along the towpath below, while paddleboarders and narrowboats move quietly through the basin. In the evening, balconies become private vantage points as the skyline softens beyond the trees and the canal settles into stillness. Despite its proximity to Shoreditch and the City, the basin retains a genuine sense of retreat.

Within a short stroll are neighbourhood institutions including Victoria Miro, The Duke of Cambridge, The Wenlock Arms, Towpath Cafe and Pophams Bakery. Upper Street’s restaurants, boutiques and theatres, including the Almeida Theatre, are approximately 10-15 minutes north, while Shoreditch’s creative and culinary scene unfolds to the east. Old Street’s “Silicon Roundabout” continues to anchor the area as a centre for technology and design.

Connectivity

Angel and Old Street stations (Northern Line) are both within walking distance, placing the City, Moorgate and the West End within easy reach. Numerous bus routes run along City Road, and cycling to the Square Mile takes only minutes.

City, University of London and Central Saint Martins are also easily accessible, reinforcing the area’s dynamic and creative character.

Investment & Ownership Appeal

Canal-facing apartments in established warehouse-style developments remain among the most tightly held properties in N1. Their scarcity, architectural authenticity and enduring design relevance support long-term desirability.

Union Wharf benefits from strong management, controlled access and a cohesive architectural identity -qualities that foster stability and a sense of permanence often absent in more transient new-build schemes.

The building attracts owner-occupiers and design-conscious professionals, creating a discreet and established residential community. With continued regeneration around City Road Basin and sustained commercial growth around Old Street and Clerkenwell, the surrounding area continues to strengthen - supporting both lifestyle appeal and long-term capital performance.

Why Union Wharf?

• Industrial-modern architecture
• Double-height volumes in selected homes
• Private balconies overlooking water and parkland
• Concierge service
• Secure, well-managed development
• Prime canal-side position

In a market dominated by uniform glass towers, Union Wharf stands apart -offering meaningful architecture, genuine waterside calm and immediate access to the energy of N1.