Old Aeroworks, London NW8

This bright two-bedroom apartment is on the top of the Old Aeroworks, a former art deco aircraft factory redesigned for residential use by architects Munkenbeck & Marshall. The interiors of the apartment, most notably the remarkable double-height, vaulted, corrugated steel ceilings in each room, were designed by the architect Sir Terry Farrell, and there is a balcony with space for potted plants. Church Street Market, St John’s Wood High Street and Edgware Road Underground station are all a short walk away.



The Building



Built in 1920, The Old Aeroworks is one of the earliest all-concrete buildings in Britain. Originally owned by Bovis Homes, the factory was established to take advantage of the timber that was brought up the Thames to the nearby Paddington Basin, and to manufacture entire homes under one roof. The outbreak of WWII meant that many industrial buildings were repurposed to help with the war effort. Original wood floors, metal-framed windows and industrial steel beams throughout the apartment are markers of its storied past.



The Tour



The apartment is positioned to the rear of the building, away from the bustling restaurants and shops of Edgware Road. A shared communal entrance is decorated with a striking mosaic pattern, and a plaque commemorates its past. The apartment sits on the fourth floor; access is via stairs or lift.



Entry is to an expansive open-plan kitchen, dining and living space with large windows framing elevated views across London. Glazed double doors open onto a private balcony, while double-height corrugated steel ceilings create a wonderful sense of volume and openness.



In the kitchen, a glass-topped island has space for bar seating, and worktops are finished in wood and stainless steel. Open shelving overhead provides space for cookbooks and trinkets.



The apartment has two light-filled double bedrooms, both with rooftop views and mezzanine spaces with an excellent provision of storage. The principal bedroom has an en suite bathroom, and there is also a shared bathroom with a bathtub. Both have original dark blue tiling and freestanding metal sinks.



Outdoor Space



From the living area, glazed doors unfold onto a balcony with space for potted plants and a table and chairs. It looks across an internal courtyard and thus feels especially peaceful, elevated above the rooftops.



The Area



The property is located close to the shops, cafés and restaurants of Edgware Road, Church Street Market and St John’s Wood High Street. Nearby Little Venice offers opportunities for walks along the canal, and Regent’s Park, with its open-air theatre and fragrant rose gardens, is just a 20-minute walk away. For sports aficionados, Lord’s Cricket Ground is also close by.



Church Street Market is a few minutes’ walk from the house, and is open daily for fresh fruit, vegetables and vintage furniture. The infamous Alfie’s Antique Market is close by, as is Panzer’s Delicatessen, Babbo and Oslo Court Restaurant.



There are a number of excellent schooling options in the area, including St Edwards Primary School, St Marylebone School and Queen’s College Preparatory School.



Edgware Road Underground station is approximately 10 minutes away on foot. Paddington National Rail station is also within easy reach, with direct services to Heathrow Airport, and there is quick road access to the West via the A40.



Tenure: Share of Freehold / Lease Length: Approx. 973 years / Service Charge: £4,920 / Council Tax Band: G