Neo Bankside - Property Development in Southbank, SE1, London

When designers of high-spec accommodation used to think outside the box, they invariably came up with outlandish and impractical concepts. Today's London property pioneers are more likely to think about sustainability and quality of life with NEO Bankside being a prime example of this trend. Seasonal fruit trees, bee hives and a well-stocked herb garden don't usually spring to mind when considering urban living space, yet that is just one of the many innovations joint developers Native Land and Grosvenor have come up with in a bid to make renting in SE1 a truly aspirational endeavour. Situated between the gleaming, newly reconstructed Blackfriars station and the impressive Tate Modern museum, NEO Bankside seems to form a natural link between the two, adding harmony to this burgeoning area along the south bank of the Thames.

A range of apartments to rent are available in this development that has already won an Evening Standard Grand Prix prize for Best Community Landscaping. From studios and 1 bed flats, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments - they all share the same incomparable view across the river to St Paul's Cathedral that can be enjoyed any time of the year, thanks to interior glazed enclosed balconies dubbed ‘winter gardens’ which not only provide extra light, but also special living space options.

NEO Bankside's exoskeletal look is reminiscent of the Lloyds building, which is unsurprising since they share the same architects, namely Rogers, Stirk, Harbour and Partners, whose foresight has allowed for a host of on-site amenities. A residents’ leisure club, underground car parking and a wine cellar are all factored into NEO Bankside apartments with a view to providing the best in luxury city lifestyle options that discerning tenants would expect.

Renting in NEO Bankside puts residents right in the middle of the London's considerable action. Tube connections are right next door in the form of Blackfriars and Waterloo stations, both of which have rapid links into the West End and the City. London Bridge station is further away in the opposite direction, but still within walking distance and has a fast train that leaves regularly for Gatwick International Airport. For those who like their transport a little bit more leisurely, however, there is the ideal solution in the Tfl Riverboat, which can be boarded at Bankside Pier and calls at many locations along the Thames.