The Smugglers Way development in Wandsworth, South West London, is a landmark new-build scheme delivering 554 Build-to-Rent and affordable apartments across 13 architecturally distinct blocks. Ranging from 8 to 16 storeys and spanning a 1.41-hectare site, this flagship regeneration project reimagines the former B&Q site into a vibrant residential and commercial hub.

Located just 350 metres from Wandsworth Town rail station, the development forms a key part of the area’s ongoing transformation.

Overview:

Delivered by main contractor McAleer & Rushe, the £190 million scheme incorporates three podium structures and a mix of residential and commercial zones, with communal roof gardens, landscaped courtyards, and shared amenity spaces. Designed to meet a BREEAM Excellent rating and Home Quality Mark 4, the apartments prioritise sustainability, urban living, and high-quality design—many featuring dual or triple-aspect layouts.

To support the delivery of this large-scale project, IG Masonry Support was appointed to supply several core structural systems, contributing to the integrity and architectural detail of the façade. Our involvement included the design and manufacture of Welded Masonry Support, B.O.S.S. A1 (Brick on Soffit System), Cast-in Channel, and Windposts, each tailored to the specific needs of this complex multi-block site.

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A standout feature of the project is the integration of B.O.S.S. A1 units within areas of deep soffit brickwork. These prefabricated, fire-rated units were designed to create crisp, uninterrupted brick details below window openings and balconies—an aesthetic central to the scheme's modern design language. The lightweight nature of B.O.S.S. A1, being up to 70% lighter than traditional precast concrete alternatives, also enabled rapid installation on-site, contributing to significant time and labour efficiencies.

Welded Masonry Support systems were engineered to accommodate varying cavity widths and load requirements across the 13 blocks. These bespoke supports provided essential structural stability while allowing for clean, visually consistent interfaces between façades.

To further meet structural and architectural demands, Cast-in Channels were supplied for key areas where fixing directly to the concrete frame was required. These channels ensured reliable and secure installation of the masonry support systems while accommodating necessary tolerances.

Windposts were also incorporated throughout the development to provide lateral support to large brickwork panels, particularly in higher-risk wind load zones and parapet areas.

Through careful collaboration with the contractor and design teams, IG Masonry Support delivered systems that aligned with the project's technical, aesthetic, and programme requirements. Our prefabricated solutions not only ensured structural resilience and visual quality but also contributed to the sustainability and speed of the overall build.

The Smugglers Way development now stands as a benchmark for Build-to-Rent housing in London, combining architectural ambition with modern construction efficiencies.