Dehavilland Studios III, Theydon Road, London E5

This striking apartment occupies a sought-after corner position in Clapton’s iconic Dehavilland Studios. It stretches to just shy of 1,400 sq ft, predominantly occupied by an expansive open-plan living space. Towering over the River Lea, the building represents an arresting piece of British design history, and is close to some of north-east London’s best-loved green spaces.



The Building



Designed by the engineer Sir Owen Williams, the building was used during World War II as a ‘shadow factory’, producing aircraft components to be sent for use in the war. Parts for ‘The Mosquito’ were made here, a wooden plane designed by the eponymous Sir Geoffrey de Havilland. Today, it stands as a superb example of modernist architecture in London, with its interior spaces turned into a series of open, loft-style studio apartments by the award-winning developer Hollybrook.



The Tour



Entry to the apartment is on the second floor of the building, reached via stairs and a lift. The door opens to a generous entrance hall with built-in storage for jackets and shoes.



Largely arranged in an open plan, the living spaces unfold seamlessly, with polished concrete underfoot. Tall windows punctuate the rear and side elevations, framing sweeping views beyond. A wall of bespoke shelving becomes a natural focal point while highlighting the lofty ceiling height. There is additional neatly concealed storage on the opposite side to ensure minimal living.



The kitchen lies to the right, with bespoke cabinetry by Swedish designer: Lars Frideen. An island defines the space while all appliances have been neatly integrated. A pantry and utility area lies adjacent.



The mezzanine level is a versatile space, which can easily be configured as a sleeping area, office or studio. There's also a smart en suite shower room on this level.



The apartment also has an off-street parking space.



The Area



Springfield Park is a pretty tree-studded spot to the north, while the open expanse of Hackney Downs lies south. Hackney Marshes runs alongside the River Lea and its footpath, which connects to the Hertford Union Canal on the south-east side of Victoria Park. The footpath is a beautiful walk, with The Anchor and Hope offering a well-placed pitstop.



Chatsworth Road is around 15 minutes’ walk away. The street is known for its weekly food market as well as its brilliant café scene: Leo's, Stones and Fink's are among local favourites. There is also a wonderful independent cinema, The Castle, and atmospheric local pubs.



Lower Clapton is also within walking distance; noteworthy haunts include local wine bar and shop 107, Lucky and Joy, Mambow and My Neighbours the Dumplings. Blok is close and has excellent exercise classes, a gym space and a sauna.



Clapton Station is around an eight-minute walk away and runs Overground services towards Liverpool Street for connections into the city and across London. The area is also well-served by buses.



Tenure: Share of Freehold (live/work) / Lease Length: Approx. 970 years remaining / Service Charge: Approx. £3,650 per annum / Ground Rent: N/A / Council Tax Band: D