Modular construction advances in West London’s build to rent market

The Enclave: Acton, a modular build-to-rent tower in West London, has reached its topping-out stage, establishing itself as the area’s tallest volumetric modular building. Rising 32 storeys and standing 106 metres high, this project highlights the use of modular construction in residential-led, mixed-use developments.

Developed by Tide Construction and owned by Outpost Management, Enclave: Acton spans 20,440 square metres and is anticipated to open ahead of schedule in 2025. The building will include 462 co-living apartments with 1,672 square metres of shared amenity spaces across five floors, including facilities such as a spa, bar lounge, co-working spaces, cinema, and a rooftop terrace with views across London.

Volumetric Construction Techniques

The Enclave: Acton project was built with volumetric modular construction, a method that enabled Tide Construction to achieve a condensed timeline while reducing its embodied carbon and community disruption. The approach, delivered through Tide’s manufacturing arm, Vision, constructs modules offsite before assembling them on location, contributing to faster construction timelines.

Christy Hayes, CEO of Tide and Vision, noted the project’s alignment with housing demands: “The Castle exemplifies the transformative potential of volumetric construction in addressing the UK’s housing needs. It enables the efficient development of high-quality homes, delivering them with speed, scale, and the precision of factory production. We are delighted to mark this milestone in our partnership with BlackRock Real Estate and Outpost Management.”

James Halstead, CIO of European Value-Add real estate at BlackRock, commented on the wider role of modular construction, stating, “Reaching this milestone so rapidly underscores the programme benefits of volumetric construction. We’re excited to be investing in the delivery of much-needed housing in a more sustainable manner. The Enclave partnership resonates with the wider investment strategy for our flagship European value add series that has high conviction in sectors with strong tailwinds and growing investor appetite.”

Co-Living Model in West London

The Enclave: Acton also incorporates a co-living model, designed with shared amenities such as a library, private dining areas, gym, basketball court, and a 186 square metre rooftop terrace, providing a range of facilities for residents. This co-living approach reflects Outpost Management’s focus on supporting various resident needs.

Troy Tomasik, CEO of Outpost Management, commented on the construction milestone, stating, “We’re excited to see Enclave: Acton taking shape so quickly and proud to have reached this important construction milestone on West London’s tallest volumetric modular building and highest quality co-living asset. We’re looking forward to opening next summer, with a fantastic amenity offer, equipping residents to be productive, healthy, and social aligned with our concept to deliver effortless living. We can’t wait to welcome them to their new homes.”

See: Tide Construction

See: Enclave: Acton