Crusader Mill, 70 Chapeltown Street, Manchester

Set on the upper floors of Crusader Mill in Piccadilly East, this two-bedroom apartment pairs industrial heritage with carefully balanced modern design. Part of Capital & Centric’s renowned development, the Grade II-listed mill was reimagined by architects Shedkm into a considered collection of apartments around a tranquil, residents-only courtyard. Behind its red-brick façade, this home offers south-facing aspects and a loft-like feel, close to Manchester’s most dynamic neighbourhoods.

The Building

Originally built in 1840, Crusader Mill was once at the heart of Manchester’s textile machinery industry. Today, it stands as a considered redevelopment, where original industrial elements are retained and complemented by contemporary additions - including steel-framed access bridges, glazed lifts, modern yellow insertions, and a landscaped courtyard with secluded seating, greenery, and communal BBQ spaces. A 24-hour concierge provides additional convenience, while cycle storage supports city living.

The Space

Entry is via the third floor into a central hallway, where engineered oak flooring runs underfoot and sets a consistent tone throughout the apartment. The plan is well balanced: to the left sit one of the bedrooms and the bathroom; to the right, the second bedroom and a utility cupboard. Ahead, the home opens into its main living space.

The open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area occupies a corner position, benefitting from south- and east-facing aspects. Large powder-coated aluminium windows surround the space, introducing generous natural light, while a Juliet balcony enhances the sense of openness. Exposed brickwork forms a textured backdrop, reinforcing the apartment’s industrial roots.

As you step into the living space, the volume lifts dramatically to reveal double-height ceilings, with original timber trusses exposed overhead. An upper-level area, currently used for storage, adds loft-like character and offers flexibility for future use.

The kitchen is arranged along one wall, with grey cabinetry paired with crisp white worktops. Integrated appliances are neatly concealed, while a central island provides additional storage, generous preparation space, and informal seating, comfortably accommodating dining and entertaining. The living area sits to the opposite side of the plan and is subtly zoned through a deeper wall colour, creating a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere. An additional storage cupboard is also positioned within this area.

The bathroom is finished in a clean, contemporary palette, featuring black vertical stack tiling to the walk-in shower, a recessed vanity with built-in storage, and a heated towel rail.

Both bedrooms continue the engineered oak flooring. The principal bedroom retains exposed brickwork and includes a cleverly positioned walk-in wardrobe tucked discreetly around the corner. The second bedroom is well proportioned and is currently used as a home office, offering flexibility for guests, working from home, or additional storage as required.

The Area

Crusader Mill is located in the rapidly emerging Piccadilly East area, known for its independent bars and restaurants, and just a short stroll from Ancoats, Northern Quarter, Kampus, and New Islington. Adding to the vibrant local scene, the newly opened Cafe Cotton in the neighbouring Neptune Mill offers a brunch and bar spot, serving coffee, artisan sandwiches, and baked goods.

Within a 10-minute walk, you’ll also find the green spaces of Mayfield Park, as well as Freight Island and Ducie Street Warehouse, offering a wide array of food, drink, and entertainment options, further enriching the area’s already diverse and thriving community.

The location offers convenient motorway access via the M56, M60, and M62 making travel and commuting straightforward. Manchester International Airport is just a 25-minute drive away, ensuring easy connections for international travel. For those looking to venture to the capital, the train journey from Manchester Piccadilly - only a 5-minute walk away - to London Euston is efficiently timed at just 2 hours and 15 minutes.