CELEBRATING A YEAR OF COMMUNITY, CULTURE AND CONNECTION
2025 has been a great year at Sugar House Island, shaped by shared experiences, new faces and a growing sense of community in the heart of East London.
The year kicked off with a big welcome for International Workplace Group (IWG), who have taken 21,364 sq ft at Chimney Walk. Their flexible workspaces bring a new energy to Stratford and add to the Island’s mix of creative and learning spaces. Alongside neighbours like the University of Huddersfield, Phaidon and East London Dance, IWG is helping our vibrant Island of businesses, makers and learners grow even stronger.
In May, Chimney Walk welcomed Street Eats, a new monthly street food market delivered with Street Food Traders. A rotating mix of independent food vendors brought colour, flavour and energy to the Island, creating a lively place to meet, eat and spend time. From global dishes to local favourites, Street Eats quickly found its place in the monthly rhythm of the neighbourhood.
May also saw our resident fashion brand Sophia Webster host incredibly popular pop-up samples sales, offering exclusive bargains on the brand’s celebrated designs – it was a pleasure to partner with the team to make this happen.
The Summer Social in August was one of the year’s standout moments, bringing neighbours and local businesses together to celebrate everything that makes the Island special. With food, drinks and entertainment, it was a chance to catch up, share stories and enjoy recent highlights from across the community including retail successes and the expansion of The Market.
September saw Sugar House Island take part in the Open House Festival, welcoming visitors keen to explore the area’s architecture and history. Guided tours offered a closer look at how former industrial buildings and restored chimneys have shaped the Island today. Jim & Tonic added to the atmosphere with distillery talks and tastings, making it an engaging and enjoyable day for all.
In October, we celebrated Black History Month, spotlighting local and global black talent through open mic nights with renowned artist Ovyuki, as well as film screenings and panel talks, which explored the themes of identity, resilience and legacy.
Behind the scenes, the appointment of Dan Westley as Head of Portfolio at Vastint UK marked an important step for the Island’s continued growth. His role supports the ongoing development of Sugar House Island as a place to work, create and spend time.
The year ended in December with festive lights and seasonal installations, bringing warmth and colour to the public spaces and creating a welcoming winter atmosphere.
Looking ahead to 2026, Sugar House Island remains focused on being a friendly, creative neighbourhood shaped by the people who live and work here and we’re excited for what’s to come.