In December, my family of four moved into a two‑bed flat in one of the new developments that have taken shape in London’s White City, renting temporarily while our house is renovated. Four months in, I’m enjoying it far more than expected, and quietly wondering how we’re going to explain to the children that they won’t always be able to book out a cinema room for their friends at the weekend.

Family life in a new-build apartment

When we packed up our four‑bed house and put most of our belongings into storage, I was sceptical. Surely a two‑bed flat wouldn’t cope with family life? I was wrong. Thoughtful design makes all the difference: a proper cloakroom, an airing cupboard, and generous built‑in wardrobes in both bedrooms mean everything has its place. Living with less has been surprisingly liberating – not minimalism as an ideology, but practicality as a lifestyle.

I’m not new to the area, so I already knew the benefits of having Westfield, Europe’s largest shopping centre, nearby. But being on the doorstep is another level of convenience altogether. The redevelopment that’s going on here – Television Centre, White City Living, Imperial College – has created a location that feels genuinely well balanced, with generous green spaces.

Amenities with the power to transform daily life

Then there are the new-build amenities – often debated in theory, but transformative in practice. A pool, sauna and steam room; a fully equipped gym; and a coworking space that has become invaluable for children’s homework (and for escaping the sound of football or cartoons). Curious to test my own assumptions, I did some informal “primary research” at home:

• My 10-year-old loves the cinema room and the pool.
• My 7-year-old loves the pool too – and a warm bedroom (underfloor heating is a revelation after years of draughts).
• My husband values the gym and spa facilities.
• As for me, I rely heavily on the coworking space for sanity and focus, and the concierge is a dream.

Pets have been an unexpected highlight – particularly given we don’t have any of our own. Meeting an assortment of small dogs in the lifts has proved a great conversation starter.

And then there are the views. I never thought I’d be someone who talked about “the views” – after all, we’re still in Shepherd’s Bush. But no one warns you about the sunrises. High up, south‑facing, with floor‑to‑ceiling glazing and balconies, the light is extraordinary. Sunrises and sunsets have become daily rituals.

Is there a downside?

Any complaints? A day of lift maintenance was mildly frustrating – but communicated well in advance. And booking the function room requires midnight precision thanks to its popularity. Which says something about the neighbours: a diverse, friendly mix, clearly making full use of the building.

Would I recommend a high‑rise new‑build flat for family life? Absolutely. Scooters and bikes live safely in the basement storage, stations are close enough that we don’t miss having a car, and groceries arrive at the front door. Daily life feels easier, more sociable and more efficient. That’s what it feels like when a scheme actually works – when design, management and location come together to support everyday life.

The importance of placemaking

After years of analysing the sector from the outside, actually living it has reminded me that when new-build homes are well designed, well managed and properly integrated into their surroundings, they offer something genuinely compelling.

At a time when new build is often viewed through a negative lens, sharing positive lived experiences matters. If more people experienced new-build living like this, particularly in a city like London, I suspect perceptions would shift far faster than policy ever could.

Further information

Contact Katy Warrick