Whether you’re a south Londoner or not, it’s hard not to love the South Bank. The cultural hub sparkles with attractions from County Hall to the London Eye, and the path teems with street food stalls to fuel your weekend river walks. The South Bank was also one of the best-performing areas in prime central London last year, according to the latest research by Knight Frank. No surprise, then, that buyers are clambering for an SE1 postcode.

Those seeking riverside luxury need look no further than the distinctive South Bank Tower, which is now home to 193 shiny new apartments, including plush four-bedroom homes and two spectacular penthouses. It’s been designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, the architects behind the City’s forever-buzzing Heron Tower, so you know you’re in safe hands. Each apartment is designed to capitalise on skyline views, with floor-to-ceiling glazing, and if you want to see the impressive vista in the open air, head up to the apartment’s private roof gardens: they’re among the largest in the capital.

Inside, some apartments have been designed by Studio Ashby and Rachel Winham Interior Design. Rachel Winham’s interior for one of the two-bedroom apartments uses contrasting shapes and materials for a modern aesthetic, and large mirrored walls are in place to reflect the striking views.

Studio Ashby’s earthy urban palette and spherical shapes also work in harmony with the vistas. The theme running through its three-bedroom apartment is modern art: fitting, considering the close proximity to the Tate Modern and Hayward Gallery.

Studio Ashby’s earthy urban palette and spherical shapes also work in harmony with the vistas

In the triple-height lobby, there’s another emblem of modern design, in the form of an imposing sculpture from Slovenian artist Tobias Putrih. Entitled Vertical Shell, the piece is inspired by an oyster shell Putrih found on the riverbank when he was researching the area.

Facilities include a private cinema, gym, sauna, steam room and 20m pool lit by skylights. While there’s plenty to explore on your doorstep, you’d be forgiven for hiding away in your apartment every now and again. It would be rude not to, really.

South Bank Tower is due for completion in 2016. Prices start at £1.8m. For more info visit southbanktower.com