Doesn’t it strike you how Lincoln Plaza seems to command attention? Lincoln Plaza is not just another building. It is a statement.
Lincoln Plaza stands proudly on Millharbour, part of London’s Docklands. Specifically, it is situated on the Isle of Dogs. This 31-storey luxury housing development is near South Quay DLR station. In recent years, the Isle of Dogs has seen many new high-rise residential buildings. Lincoln Plaza is one of them.
Designed by BUJ Architects for Galliard Homes, Lincoln Plaza features two residential towers. It also includes a hotel that opened in 2018. This hotel operates under the Curio brand by Hilton.
However, Lincoln Plaza is no stranger to controversy. In 2016, Building Design magazine awarded it the Carbuncle Cup. This prize is for the worst new building of the year. The developers responded. They stated that these awards are subjective matters of taste. They also noted that architectural design is art. Like all art, it is a matter of personal tastes. The developers emphasized that the scheme sold out to buyers. This fact suggests that the project is liked by the purchasers.
Stepping inside Lincoln Plaza’s hotel, visitors are greeted with a unique design. RPW Design sensitively designed the 129-key hotel. They took note of the exciting and vibrant spirit of the London Docklands area. The design team, led by Nicola Romanelli and Richard Snow, maintained a luxurious experience throughout. The guestrooms, function, and meeting spaces all reflect the location.
RPW Design drew inspiration from Canary Wharf. They saw it as a treasure trove. Inspiration came from the historic shipping and dockland past. It also came from the present-day high tech, modern business and luxury residential living. The design incorporates extraordinary architecture.
Richard Snow, Senior Designer at RPW Design, stated that they drew on the rich industrial past of the area. They used rusty tones and finishes. They also designed joinery and FF&E pieces with exposed metal frameworks. Conscious of the hotel brand and surrounding residential developments, they included quality finishes. Natural stone in the bathrooms and statement pieces were added. The rusty burnished gold wall covering to the bed head wall enhances the space.
Lincoln Plaza London’s focus on luxurious lifestyle facilities is evident throughout the 129 guest rooms. The layout moves away from the standard hotel offering. The vanity is incorporated into the main lobby area of the room. This creates a sense of space and openness. The traditional hotel room desk was removed. Instead, RPW designed a multi-use table at the right height for either a workspace or dining table. These changes allow a more residential feel.
Bespoke shelving units are made of blackened steel and antique brass. Marble rainfall showers add to the luxury. The guestroom artwork was carefully curated in collaboration with RPW Design’s Art Consultant, Peter Millard and Partners. It showcases some of the East End’s most famous and unique artists. Individual sculptural pieces by Simon Bingle are positioned in every floor lift lobby. These hark back to the industrial landscape still visible around the hotel.
Lincoln Plaza’s meeting areas blend old industrial and contemporary design. The fitness centre has a concrete reception desk formed out of concrete and rusty metal effect laminate. The meeting areas are reached by a feature staircase. The staircase is formed of shuttered concrete. A luxurious brushed brass handrail and stair treads are also visible.
So, Lincoln Plaza stands. It is a place of luxury. It is a place of design. It is a place that evokes strong opinions. Whether you love it or hate it, Lincoln Plaza certainly makes an impression.