The Factory, Nile Street, London N1

A fantastic example of open-plan warehouse living, this apartment lies on the first floor of The Factory, a much-loved Victorian conversion in Islington. Arranged across one airy level, it spans nearly 1,400 sq ft and has original industrial windows, hardwood parquet floors and exposed brick walls. Residents have access to a well-maintained communal courtyard, a porter and secure private car parking.

The Building

Built as warehouses in the 19th century, The Factory lies at the intersection of Nile Street, Underwood Street and Shepherdess Walk. It was converted into residential accommodation in the 1990s, having formerly served as a storage depot for The British Museum.

The building was one of the first by Manhattan Loft Corporation, which is regarded as having introduced converted warehouse living to London. With its handsome entrance and communal areas, The Factory is considered among the company's most impressive developments.

The Tour

The apartment is accessed from a smart communal entranceway via either lift or stairs. Its front door opens to a hallway with full-length bespoke cabinetry that provides room for displaying books and records.

The hallway guides towards the apartment's open-plan living spaces. Large factory windows here fill the room with light, right up to its spectacular three-metre tall ceilings. Exposed brickwork and beautiful hardwood parquet floors introduce tonal warmth and a sense of cohesion.

The flexible plan could be divided in several ways, making it ideal for hosting and entertaining. The well-appointed kitchen is fitted with professional stainless-steel units and a gas range cooker; a long, bespoke oak counter offers an additional surface for food preparation along with storage space beneath.

A glass partition conceals the bright double bedroom. It has a neutral palette, which is enhanced by exposed brickwork and illuminated by the light that enters via a large, south-easterly window. A corridor with a walk-in wardrobe links the bedroom back to the main entrance hall and provides an abundance of storage.

The corridor also provides access to a shower room, which is clad in black slate and finished with industrial stainless-steel fittings.

The Area

The Factory sits in the heart of Islington. It's close to to the Regent’s Canal towpath, which leads to Angel in one direction and Victoria Park in the other. Via its pathway, The Baring in De Beauvoir Town can be reached in 15, with the perennially popular Towpath just beyond.

Nile Street is also close to the greenery of Shepherdess Walk Park and local favourite pub The Wenlock Arms. Ironmonger Row Baths are a five-minute walk from the house, with two swimming pools, a gym, and spa. Shoreditch, Hoxton, and Clerkenwell are all nearby, with a several places to eat and shop.

Beyond is the Barbican Centre, a 15-minute walk south, with its arresting brutalist architecture, exhibition spaces and year-round programme of music and theatre. Gallery Victoria Miro is just around the corner, while the Almeida is a 20-minute walk away. The latter is on Upper Street, where other popular spots include Afghan Kitchen and the boutiques along Camden Passage.

Islington is also known for its cafés and bakeries, which include branches of Pophams and Jolene bakeries, along with newer opening The Dreamery, an ice cream parlour/wine bar.

The Factory is conveniently positioned for easy access to the West End and east London. Old Street station is a six-minute walk away and runs Northern line services. Hoxton Overground (Windrush line) is also near, and there are plenty of buses serving the local area.

Tenure: Share of Freehold / Lease Length: approx. 971 years remaining / Service Charge: approx. £5,697 per annum / Ground Rent: approx. £150 per annum / Council Tax Band: F