Crafting community at West London's Glassworks

In Greenford Quay's latest build-to-rent development the architect and design teams have created a distinctive living environment that beautifully blends practicality with comfort. The Glassworks showcases a thoughtful approach to community-centred design through an innovative approach to construction, carefully selected materials and furniture plus nature-inspired artworks.

The Glassworks is the third phase of Greystar Europe's Greenford Quay development in west London. This build-to-rent scheme comprises 354 homes complemented by carefully designed community and amenity spaces that prioritise resident comfort and practical living elements.

Tide was the developer and also the contractor, delivering the project through its sister firm Vision Volumetric, which used 3D volumetric units which dramatically cut construction time.

Johnson Naylor, responsible for interior space planning, architecture, and FF&E design, created what they describe as a ‘West Coast, Californian spirit’ throughout the development. Their design philosophy revolved around creating spaces where residents feel immediately relaxed—environments that are simple, comfortable, and purposeful. The concept of ‘second nature’ drives the interior aesthetic, connecting to both natural elements and the idea of giving items a second life. This manifests through a thoughtful mixture of new and accent pre-loved furniture pieces.

The development's double-height entrance establishes an immediate sense of scale and welcome. These communal areas function as extensions of residents' homes, requiring the same level of comfort while still impressing visitors. A tree serves as a centrepiece on the ground floor, reinforcing the nature-inspired design narrative. Signature furniture pieces like the Gervasoni Ghost sofas and chairs perfectly embody the aesthetic the designers sought to achieve. Despite the emphasis on natural materials, practicality wasn't sacrificed. For high-traffic areas, faux sisal rugs provide warmth and texture while offering superior durability. The colour palette throughout remains predominantly neutral with light greys, browns and creams creating what Johnson Naylor describes as a soft, familiar atmosphere comparable to a well-worn pair of chinos. However, the private dining area breaks this pattern with a bold colour-drenched approach in a rich mushroom hue.

Artwork plays a significant role in completing the interior vision. Pieces by Loesje van Herp feature preserved wildflowers that reference those naturally growing alongside canals—connecting directly to the development's Grand Union Canal setting. In contrast, the Level 14 Club Lounge features richly painted artworks by Maartje van den Noort, creating a more dynamic evening ambiance appropriate for the elevated viewpoint. Architects HTA Design worked hard to ensure a connection between the building itself and the outside space, with an E-shaped plan that offers central courtyards on three sides and attention paid to the local context in terms of the landscaping too.

Even utilitarian spaces receive considered treatment—the post room is generously proportioned to accommodate modern online shopping habits, and a pet spa features striking dark turquoise tiles. This attention to practical details, combined with the aforementioned volumetric construction method demonstrates how The Glassworks successfully balances aesthetic aspirations with the day-to-day needs of its community.

© All pictures: Grant Frazer