Limehouse Cut, London E14

Subject to a creative renovation in recent years, this expansive apartment sits within the former Spratt's dog biscuit factory, one of east London's first warehouse conversions. Internal Crittall windows have been added to carefully reconfigure the open-plan layout and to allow light to disperse throughout. A west-facing balcony overlooks the communal entrance courtyard and the building's ivy-covered red-brick profile.

The Building

Formerly the Spratt's dog biscuit factory, the building was originally converted by artists in the 1960s and sold as shells to painters and sculptors, many of whom still live and work there today. The high demand for the sculptures of Barry Flanagan in the 1960s led to the development of the Arts Foundry on the ground floor of Block A (opposite) that continues to cast bronze sculptures, producing the works of Anish Kapoor, Tracey Emin, Anthony Gormley, Marc Quinn, and other contemporary international artists of similar stature.

Next to the foundry is a conservation and restoration workshop of master craftsman Rupert Harris, who has worked for the V&A, the Royal Collection and many public bronze sculptures. Dynamic and unassuming, the yard often acts as an accidental gallery when storing the ongoing works produced or restored in the foundry.

The Tour

Configured in an L-shape, the building is composed of red-brick and black-framed Crittall windows; swathes of ivy scale its exterior.

The entrance is via a neat courtyard with residents' parking. Beyond are immaculately kept communal areas grounded with vibrant magenta carpeting. The apartment sits on the first floor, with access via lift or stairs.

A generous factory-style door opens onto a long corridor with extensive built-in storage. The hallmarks of warehouse living are immediately present, from soaring ceilings with original steel beams to exposed red-brick walls. The current owners have carefully reconfigured the space to create 'zoned' living areas.

The kitchen sits in the centre of the apartment, with contrasting oak and black matt cabinetry by Fenix NTM. An island, which doubles as a breakfast bar, cleverly bounds the space while adding plenty of storage. Open-shelving draws the eye upwards, elongating the already tall ceilings. The dining area is on the opposite side, next to a natural clay plaster wall that emits a pinkish hue.

Split-level, the living area is at the front of the apartment and is punctuated by black-framed Crittall doors that open onto the balcony. Further shelving has been added here to maximise space.

Opposite lies the main bedroom, which is accessed via a short set of terrazzo steps. It is separated from the rest of the living area by Crittall walls that allow brightness to permeate. There is also full-height cabinetry in this room and curtains have been added for privacy. A second sleeping space is at the opposite end of the apartment and borrows light from the living room.

Next door is the recently renovated bathroom. Terrazzo tiles add confetti-like colour against the otherwise monochromatic. There is a separate step-in shower, a large oval bath and double sinks with plenty of drawer space set underneath.

Outdoor Space

Original Crittall doors open onto a generous west-facing balcony with plenty of space for a table and chairs. It overlooks the peaceful courtyard below.

The Area

The apartment is located just to the south of Limehouse Cut. Recently redeveloped Bartlett Park is close by, with grassy sports pitches and a wildflower bank. It is also home to e5 Poplar Bakehouse, which serves delicious sourdough bread and Poplar Union, with its diverse arts programme. Within 10 minutes’ walk is Chrisp Street Market, designed by Frederick Gibberd and built as part of the 1951 Festival of Britain, and the recently renovated, Grade II-listed Poplar Baths and Leisure Centre.

The canal path runs to Limehouse in one direction and Bromley-by-Bow in the other. Mile End Park is a short walk away, with its excellent leisure centre and brilliant local pubs, including The Lord Tredegar.

The shops and restaurants of Canary Wharf are nearby, and can be reached by DLR from Langdon Park. The Jubilee line can also be accessed at Canary Wharf, for quick journeys into central London in one direction, or Stratford in the other.

Tenure: Leasehold / Lease Length: Approx. 960 years remaining / Service Charge: Approx. £2652 per annum / Ground rent: peppercorn / Council Tax Band: C