Crusader Mill

Located in the heart of Manchester’s emerging Piccadilly East neighbourhood, this apartment is set on the second floor of the iconic Crusader Mill, a Grade II-listed building that is part of the Capital & Centric development, designed by Shedkm architects. The apartment features a light-filled living area, highlighting the exposed brickwork and engineered oak flooring. Residents benefit from access to a communal courtyard, providing a peaceful retreat. Once the epicentre of Manchester’s cotton industry, the surrounding area has now transformed into a thriving hub with a variety of bars, cafes, and restaurants.

 

The Building

 

Dating back to 1840, the building was originally known as Phoenix Works, one of Manchester’s earliest purpose-built textile machinery factories, playing a key role in earning the city its 'Cottonopolis' nickname. Constructed by Parr, Curtis, and Madley, it was later destroyed by fire and subsequently rebuilt. John Hetherington & Sons, a leading textile manufacturer, operated the mill until the early 1920s, when the decline of the industry led to its closure. In 1994, the building was officially listed, recognising its historical significance in Manchester’s cotton legacy.

 

Set on the second floor, the apartment maintains its character with a red brick exterior. Inside, a communal courtyard awaits, thoughtfully designed with planting, hidden benches, barbecues, and cycling facilities. The building’s original industrial essence is preserved and complemented by modern yellow architectural insertions that blend seamlessly with the existing structure, creating full-height volumes. Access to the apartment is through glazed lifts and metal-gridded bridges, offering views over the courtyard below. A 24-hour concierge service is also available for residents' convenience.

 

The Space

 

The entrance leads into a hallway, with the double bedroom positioned to the left, exhibiting its character through an overhead timber beam and cast iron column. The room also features built-in storage. 

 

As you continue down the hall, additional concealed storage is tucked away before the space opens up into the heart of the apartment—a spacious, open-plan kitchen and living area. This central living space is defined by exposed brickwork, original to the mill’s heritage, and timber beams overhead, creating a warm and character-filled atmosphere. 

 

One wall is defined by large powder-coated aluminium windows and exposed brick, while the opposite side houses the kitchen, fitted with integrated appliances and ample storage, both overhead and under-counter. The area between the kitchen and windows has been thoughtfully arranged to create distinct dining and living zones, maximising both space and functionality.

 

The bathroom completes the apartment, featuring a walk-in shower framed by sleek black vertical stack tiling, along with a heated towel rail and a vanity shelf.

 

The Area

 

Crusader Mill is located in the rapidly redeveloping Piccadilly East area, surrounded by independent bars, restaurants, and cultural spots, just a short stroll from Ancoats, the Northern Quarter, Kampus, and New Islington. Within a 10-minute walk, you'll also find the green spaces of Mayfield Park, the vibrant atmosphere of Freight Island, and Ducie Street Warehouse, offering even more variety to the area’s already diverse scene.

 

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.