Essential Living

Number of Developments

4

Ratings

4.61 Rating

Rating (based on 607 reviews)

Excellent

70.84%

Very Good

24.55%

Average

3.29%

Disappointing

0.82%

Very Poor

0.49%

Essential Living is a Build to Rent property developer based in London. Its hallmarks are premium apartments in well-connected locations.

Essential Living developments

There are many Essential Living developments on HomeViews: Berkshire House in Maidenhead, Vantage Point in Archway, Islington, and Dressage Court in Bethnal Green. In addition, Union Wharf, Essential Living’s newest development is a collection of 249 apartments spread over two towers, set on the banks of peaceful Deptford Creek.

Essential Living reviews

The building is absolutely stunning. The apartments are tastefully done and very spacious. The resident team is always so helpful. The building organises many events throughout the year so that the residents feel lik they are a part of a community. Absolutely love living here!” – Nilofer R, verified resident at Dressage Court

Vantage Point is in such a good location above Archway tube. The place is always clean and tidy and it’s great to have the opportunity to meet new people. The residents team make living here so easy, they are always on hand to answer questions or help with any problems.” – Anabelle D, verified resident at Vantage Point

You can read more reviews from Essential Living residents by clicking on the developments below. Do you live in an Essential Living property? Click here to submit your review.

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Developments

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Essential Living reviews

Reviews

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Showing 607 reviews

Affordable, Luxury, Pet-friendly Location: What more?

Review Date Aug 2020

Union Wharf itself is really something special and is greatly appreciated by its residents. My partner and I had spent significant time looking for a place that ticked a lot of our boxes. The development is brand new, the furniture is sleek and the facilities offer some of the best resident facilities I would argue in London. Typically in new developments they will try to squeeze as many flats into the space as possible, but here the flats feel spacious and very well done. The facilities are one of the most attractive parts of the building, you have a communal chill out area on the 22nd floor is where you can read, socialise and play pool. There is a private room to host your own private parties and functions at a reasonable rate and gym.THE VIEW, the view from the rooftop you honestly would have to pay quite a lot of money to get access to these views in London.

Most importantly to us was finding somewhere that was pet friendly and welcoming. Our pooch has made many friends in the building (as have we) and it’s makes it quite special that having pets are welcomed (especially in the fabulous location of Greenwich). The concierge are really hard working and great people and always very friendly. I think you can tell that the employees really enjoy working here and often stop for a chat during the day.

If anyone is considering or looking to live somewhere that is pet friendly, luxury (but affordable), amazing location and access to the city, I would really recommend taking a look. Moving here has really made us fall in love with Greenwich and I don’t think we will be planning on moving for a very long time!

Please tell us what you like and dislike about this area:

The area of Union Wharf speaks for itself. You are a stones throw from Greenwich with the buzzing restaurants, bars and independent shops. You have access to one of the best parks in London, Greenwich park a 10 minute walk away and direct access to London Bridge and the city in 10 minutes.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

I didn’t actually realise how great of a commute it was into the city. I definitely recommend walking To Greenwich station and getting the train to London Bridge. My commute in total takes me 20 minutes which is crazy good!

What is the best feature of your home:

The View.. we can see Canary Wharf, a wide view of the Thames and all of the city of London. We even watched the fireworks from our apartment on new year.

5
Facilities
5
Design
5
Location
5
Value
5
Management
User submitted image of  Union Wharf, SE8
User submitted image of  Union Wharf, SE8
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Manager Response

Thank you for all the 5 *’s, and for sharing these great photos with us. It’s wonderful to have feedback about all elements of life at Union Wharf ?

If you’re lucky enough to live here, you won’t be able to live anywhere else. Trust me.

Where to begin… I cannot rate this place highly enough. Working in travel and events, I have been fortunate enough to visit a quite a few luxury hotels over the years and consider my standards quite high when it comes to hospitality. I have also lived in quite a few properties in London. Nothing compares to this.

The style. The amenities. The common areas. The private dining room which you can book for large gatherings (with 2x ovens, 2x fridges, all the kitchen equipment and utensils you can dream of). And I haven’t even gotten to the rooftop and its incredible panoramic views of the city. Again, I’ve visited quite a few rooftops, but nothing like this. You can see every single iconic building in London. Every single one. From Big Ben to the BT Tower to Canary Wharf and even London Bridge. Literally everything. No lie.

But what has impressed me most, are the staff. Angela, Ines, Astrid and the rest of the entire team will do anything to help you. They’re on hand practically 24/7 down at reception or at the push of your button on the intercom (which I never use, as I like going down to see them!). There is always someone on the front desk so the building is very secure. And you’ll never miss a package again! Anything breaks, it gets fixed within the day usually too. Incredible team.

It sounds a little cheesy but I really love this place and its special community beyond words. And I’m antisocial at the best of times! I honestly wake up every day feeling like I’ve won the lottery living here.

Please tell us what you like and dislike about this area:

To have the best park in London (Greenwich Park with it’s incredible views of the city, not to mention the history of the Maritime Museum and Observatory) within walking distance of the Thames and Cutty Sark, is incredibly special in itself. But factor in the numerous street food markets and rich history of the area and you have the perfect spot in London. Only 10 mins on the train to London Bridge too! I will never live in another area.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

Respect the property and the people who run it. If you’re fortunate enough to live here, treat it with respect. Most do, but some don’t.

What is the best feature of your home:

Underfloor heating / flooring. Video intercom. Size. En-suite with walk in shower. Style. Futuristic shower/bath buttons instead of taps. It’s a slick build.

5
Facilities
5
Design
5
Location
5
Value
5
Management
User submitted image of  Union Wharf, SE8
User submitted image of  Union Wharf, SE8
User submitted image of  Union Wharf, SE8
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We’re home – The best place to live at the center of Greenwich!!

After 5 years of living in London, Union Wharf finally feels like home for me and my son!! My son was born here in London and I am originally from California so it was a dream to find UW and a building with all the amenities, easy access to everything and it is always super clean! We have amazing rooftops with stellar views which have BBQs, lounges where you can WFH or have some wine and cheese. There is a pool table in one building and large areas to hire out for private events. No one usually mentions it but there is also great selections of different books to read in the common areas – even cookbooks in the kitchen. I love the fact that Essential Living/Union Wharf thought of everything as they even have a guest apartment that can be rented out for people from out of town at a very reasonable price. I do not use the gym but they have that too along with classes and social events which makes the community come together and get to know the neighbours. They are a young development and there will always be teething issues along the way. Overall it is a great place to live as I feel safe and that they are always looking out for their renters best interests. They also LOVE pets!
Lastly- they have the best team at reception who help with EVERYTHING!! I can never thank them enough.
Thanks Essential Living, we love living here!!

Please tell us what you like and dislike about this area:

My son and I love living at Union Wharf. We have been here for a year and have everything we need. There is a large Waitrose across the street and the local Tesco and Sainsbury’s Express all less than five minutes away (walking!). Even our GP/local pharmacy is across the way along with our private Dentist- who are both excellent! If you like Costa or more local places for a cuppa there are two next door.
We enjoy having Greenwich Market nearby with the Museums and Cutty Sark to visit. We use the foot tunnel too and headover to Mudchute Farm quite often as you can get there within 25 minutes or less (again -by walking!!). Greenwich Park is also amazing but this is known. The location is just great. Great transport links and lastly if you need a nursery for your child there are a few to choose from with all good or Outstanding Ofsted ratings.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

I was aware but did not pay enough attention to contract as we live next to a Quary which operates 24/7 so it can be quite loud at times.

What is the best feature of your home:

My favourite feature is the regular sized washing machine and tumble dryer.

4
Facilities
5
Design
5
Location
5
Value
4
Management
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Lovely and amazing Apartment!

First and foremost, one of the standout features of this place is its pet-friendly policy. Finding a development that warmly welcomed my furry companion was such a relief.

The people at Vantage Point were fantastic. The resident team went above and beyond to assist residents, especially when handling deliveries and packages. In addition, they were always attentive and responsive to any concerns or maintenance issues.

The development organizes events that unite residents, providing opportunities for social interaction and connection. It’s a great way to meet new people and build friendships, exceptionally you’re new to London or come to study.

With neighbouring buildings being shorter, the views from here are simply breathtaking. I can’t even begin to describe the beauty of the panoramic vistas, especially during the magical sunsets. The gym is well-equipped, and the common areas are beautifully designed, providing a welcoming space for relaxation and socializing. A BBQ area and game room add a fun element to the overall living experience.

Without hesitation, I highly recommend Vantage Point to anyone seeking a welcoming and vibrant place to call home. 🙂

Please tell us what you like and dislike about this area:

There are numerous conveniently located grocery stores and supermarkets nearby, including popular options such as M&S, Aldi, Tesco, Coop, and Sainsbury. There is also a Chinese supermarket in the way of 10 minutes. Additionally, a meat shop and a seafood shop are available in the vicinity. Moreover, each direction at the intersection offers a diverse range of restaurants and bars, showcasing various types and cultures. There is also a second-hand Toy shop nearby!

Although there are occasional police car sirens, disruptive traffic noise is generally absent. Furthermore, I have not encountered anti-social behaviour during my six-month stay, contributing to a relatively safe environment. However, it’s worth mentioning that on Friday and weekend nights, you might occasionally hear people drinking underneath.

M&S and Archway Station are conveniently located right beneath the building. As a result, it only takes about 15 seconds to reach the station once you leave the building. There are also many bus stop nearby if the station is closed.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

In the vicinity, some individuals are experiencing homelessness; however, I have found that most are kind and helpful. Throughout my time here, I have never felt unsafe in their presence.

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

Our primary mode of communication is via email and they reply quickly; however, you can often find the resident team readily available at the reception counter.

5
Facilities
5
Design
5
Location
5
Value
5
Management
User submitted image of  Vantage Point, N19
User submitted image of  Vantage Point, N19
User submitted image of  Vantage Point, N19
User submitted image of  Vantage Point, N19
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Really lovely flats in a great East London location!

Really love living in Dressage Court—the building itself is in an ideal location, and the facilities are really well-kept. Love the communal area, and it provides a nice place to work in if you’re working from home. Gym is good—small, but that’s never been a problem and it’s quite easy to time it so that you’re not competing for the equipment.

The roof terrace is epic, and a great location for hosting friends and dinners. We’re really sad that we’ve not been able to make the most of it this summer due to coronavirus, but that is not Essential Living’s fault in the slightest and I only mention this to emphasise how great it is! Same applies to the resident events…they had to stop during the pandemic but they were really fun.

Our flat is good, probably on the smaller side but this is because we have a very large balcony. Design is nice and simple (in a good way), and we get a lot of sunlight…plus great views of Canary Wharf. We can hear teh passing trains if the door is open, but it’s not too intrusive and when the doors are shut, there’s very little noise whatsoever.

The Dressage Court team are always very helpful and friendly, which really makes the building a pleasure to live in. I’d say that Essential Living’s response to flat issues can sometimes be a little slow, but not so much to spoil our experience.

Please tell us what you like and dislike about this area:

Love the proximity to Shoreditch and Hackney, whilst also having the convenience of a tube and overground station within a 5-min walk. Really close to a huge Sainsbury’s, which is really useful, and lots of good restaurants, bars and cafes in walking distance. Not to mention Victoria Park, Columbia Road AND Broadway Market!

Very little I dislike about the area—there are some dodgier areas that I would avoid at night, but this becomes pretty obvious and easy to find alternative routes.

Please share one thing (or more) which you wish you had known before you moved in:

I’m glad that we are in a flat with a balcony / window that opens, as I’ve heard that other flats which don’t have this can rack up high bills with the comfort cooling (and as it’s a new build, the flats can get quite warm)

How has the building management responded to any problems or issues you have raised:

We had some mice on our balcony (which started coming into our flat) and Essential Living said they’d sort out pest control. It’s been a bit of a slow process getting it sorted, but I’m not sure if this is a problem with Rentokil or Essential Living. Other than this, they’ve responded relatively quickly to any issues!

5
Facilities
5
Design
5
Location
4
Value
4
Management
User submitted image of  Dressage Court, E2
User submitted image of  Dressage Court, E2
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These reviews are the subjective opinion of a HomeViews member and not of HomeViews

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