London - St Katharine's Dock

Decorated sailing ships heralded the opening of St Katharine's Dock near Tower Bridge in 1827. Its future became uncertain, however, as sailing vessels increased in size beyond its capacity. St Katharine's Dock became the pilot area for redevelopment and was achieved without sacrificing any of its original character: old warehouses were converted to dwellings; the Dock Master's residence, the Dickens' Inn (1800) and the Ivory House, originally a store for ivory constructed in an Italian style, were renovated. New buildings were concealed behind old facades and accommodated institutions, such as the World Trade Centre. The area was saved from becoming a slum and transformed into a lively new quarter while retaining its old charm.