Having a chat with new residents Ben & Laurence
Who better to tell you what it’s like living at East Wick + Sweetwater than some of our latest residents themselves? We caught up with Ben and Laurence, who recently made EW+S their home, to hear about their journey, what drew them to the area, and what they love most about life here.
Tell us a bit about yourselves.
Ben: We actually met at work about ten years ago, and although Laurence is a true South East Londoner and I’m originally from West Sussex, our paths crossed in London after both of us had lived in Brighton—though never at the same time! We’ve now been living together for five years (and yes, we still work at the same company). London has really become home for us.
What made you start house hunting?
Laurence: We’d always dreamed of owning a place in London, and when the latest new homes at EW+S became available, it just felt like the right moment to take the leap. We love this part of the city, so it was a perfect fit for us.
How did you find out about EW+S? Were you already looking in Hackney?
Ben: We were actually some of the first renters in Phase 1, moving into Makers House as our first home together right in the middle of the pandemic. Before that, we’d both lived in tiny studio flats, so this was a real adventure for us.
What do you like about the area? Any favourite spots?
Laurence: Being so close to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Victoria Park is a real treat and having that much green space in London is rare. We both love running, and there are loads of options for keeping fit nearby, like The Copper Box and the Velodrome. There’s always something happening at Hackney Bridge, from pop-ups to festivals, you name it. The Rioja wine festival this summer was a highlight! Canalside is great for a drink or bite to eat, and we’re both excited to check out the new V&A Storehouse, which is literally opposite our flat.
How’s the transport? Is it convenient for work?
Ben: The location is brilliant. Stratford Station is just a 10-minute walk away, but if you don’t fancy that, Hackney Wick is only a few minutes away, and there’s a bus stop right outside on Waterden Road. Getting around London is really easy.
What stood out about EW+S and the neighbourhood when you first saw it?
Laurence: Some new-build neighbourhoods can feel a bit soulless, but EW+S is different. There are loads of small businesses including a barbers, café, a gym, dentist, and a spa and it really feels like a little micro-community. We love being able to support local businesses right on our doorstep, and we’re excited to see what opens next as the area grows.
What do you love about your new home?
Ben: The rooms are a great size, and the ceilings are higher than in other new flats we looked at. The finish is really high quality, and the whole place feels bright and airy.
How was your experience buying with EW+S?
Laurence: Moving is always stressful, but the EW+S team made it feel relaxed and even exciting. They’re such a friendly bunch and kept us updated every step of the way. Even after we moved in, they were always in touch to make sure everything was okay and to answer any questions.
