Warehouse W, Western Gateway, London E16

Warehouse W is a Grade II-listed Victorian warehouse on the Royal Docks. On the third floor, this spacious apartment of over 1,100 sq ft is bathed in light through south-facing Crittall windows that afford expansive views over the water. A glass mezzanine unites classic warehouse details like exposed beams and softly worn bare brick.

The Building

The former dry goods warehouse dates from 1850-1855 and was built as part of the rapid expansion of the Royal Docks. Designed and engineered by George Parker Bidder, it was originally intended for steamships and was, at one point, the largest dock in the world. Since then, The Docklands has undergone significant development, with this being one of the most notable warehouses to have survived. Its façade is defined by yellow stock brick, a slate roof and a 2:1, 2:1, 2:1, 2 rhythm of window bays and loopholes, while blank gable end elevations have stepped brick decoration to the parapets.

The Tour

The apartment is on the third floor and is accessed via lift. Inside, the main living space has a dramatically high ceiling with diagonally braced queen post trusses. Natural light casts striking shadows across exposed brick walls from a wide, arch-shaped window, while the fresh white palette harmoniously interacts with period details. A recent renovation has seen modern features like smart-controlled underfloor heating added as well as the fitting of a new boiler.

A galley-shaped kitchen is at one end of the plan, nestled neatly under the mezzanine. Integrated appliances contained within wooden cabinets are topped by a black quartz worktop forming a smart breakfast bar.

Grey double doors lead through to the main bedroom. Here, another arched window provides a peacefully reflective view across the water. Large, custom-built wardrobes create flexible storage. A handy en suite bathroom with a bath, basin and WC is finished in neutral tones. There is a further bathroom with a shower off the hallway.

Broad spiral stairs lead up to the mezzanine currently used as a second bedroom, with a walk-in wardrobe and study or home office space. Atmospherically set within the eaves, it has a glass partition that allows views down to the living room below.

Outside Space

Directly on the dockside, breathtaking views of the glistening water along the historical dockside are dominated by magnificent Grade-II listed Stothert and Pitt Cranes. Their dark forms stand majestically beside the water, providing a mesmerizing backdrop to the newly renovated landscape and public gardens.

There are car park spaces for residents' use in front of the building and there is a secure car park space allocated inside the nearby Excel Centre. The neighbourhood is looked after by the Excel Centre's security team.

The Area

The Royal Docks have been extensively landscaped to create a public outdoor recreational space. Simply sit or stroll with uninterrupted views of the water's edge and watch as the occasional big ship enters via the swingbridge. A crop of new restaurants have sprung up recently including Tapa Tapa, China Palace and Zero Sette, a well-regarded Italian spot. The Royal Docks Adventure Watersports Centre offers open-water swimming and other water sports, including wakeboarding, rowing, sailing and kayaking. Just across the river, accessible via the cable car or 'dangleway', is the Greenwich Peninsula and the O2 Arena.

Custom House (Elizabeth Line and DLR) is a three-minute walk away, running services into Canary Wharf in five minutes. The West End and City can be reached within 15 minutes and Heathrow Airport in 53 minutes. Nearby, London City Airport has daily connections to Europe and there is easy access out of London towards Essex and Kent via the A13.

Tenure: Leasehold
Lease Length: Approx. 175 years remaining
Service Charge: Approx. £7,500 per annum (includes building insurance, repairs to shared areas and the outside of the building, cleaning services, sinking fund and CCTV)
Ground Rent: Approx. £250 per annum
Council Tax Band: F