Albert Jacob House Shortlisted at The Planning Awards 2026
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We are incredibly proud to announce our second shortlist: Albert Jacob House in the “Award for Planning for Affordable Housing” category at the 2026 Planning Awards.
A council-led development for Tower Hamlets, providing 53 homes for social rent alongside five commercial units. Over half of the new homes are three and four bedroom family dwellings, directly addressing Tower Hamlets’ acute need for larger affordable accommodation.
As with all our work, it’s not just about the building but the opportunity for a step change in neighbourhood placemaking. Improvements extend into the wider Digby Estate, transforming a section of road for new open spaces, children’s play, with pedestrian routes and the reinstatement of historic Bacton Walk.
Through close engagement with the local planning authority and a clear understanding of borough and London-wide housing priorities, the scheme has been carefully shaped to maximise affordable housing delivery while responding sensitively to its urban context.
LBTH Head of Planning praised the design as a "joyous" and "well-considered piece of architecture" that exhibits true "delight." This recognition is a testament to the care, attention, and love poured into the design.
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CGL TEAM: Simon Child | Chris Gilligan | Dani Reed | Jess Thomson | Elaine Browne | Joel Pacini
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PROJECT TEAM:
Client | @towerhamletsnow
Visualisers | @secchi_smith
Landscape Architects | Staton Cohen Landscape Architecture
Planning Consultants | NTA Planning
Structural Engineers | Conisbee
M&E Engineers | Greenguage
Fire Engineers | Hydrock
Transport Consultants | Pulsar Transport Planner
Sustainability Consultants | Greenguage
