New homes for Hackney Central: 58 minimalist flats off Mare Street are in the listed grounds of Church of St John-at-Hackney

Architect and master of minimalism John Pawson is undertaking the makeover of historic St John-at-Hackney, where the handsome church’s listed grounds are the setting for 58 smart new homes called Hackney Gardens.

Thornsett, a niche developer, has been involved in several such collaborations with ecclesiastical bodies in London.

Rather than reaching for the heavens, this project, comprises low-rise blocks around Prodigal Square, a new public space with an arts-based community centre.

As well as a place of worship, St John’s is a noted music venue, known for star-studded gigs by the likes of Coldplay and Ed Sheeran. A new passageway to Mare Street, Hackney’s main drag, is also being created.

Though not designed by Pawson, the churchyard apartments chime with his famously restrained approach, having white walls, sleek handle-less kitchens, full-height glazing and generous-size outside space.

Prices start from £575,000. More info.