Crusader Mill

Located in Piccadilly East, one of Central Manchester’s emerging neighbourhoods, this considerately designed two-bedroom apartment sits on the second floor of Crusader Mill. Part of the renowned Capital & Centric development, the Grade II-listed building blends contemporary finishes with industrial heritage, reflecting the meticulous work of Shedkm architects. Expansive windows offer uninterrupted views over the Ashton Canal, allowing natural light to flood the open-plan living space, accentuating the exposed brick and engineered oak flooring. Residents have access to a tranquil communal courtyard, offering a peaceful retreat from the city. 

 

The Building 

 

Dating back to 1840, the building was originally known as Phoenix Works, one of Manchester’s first purpose-built textile machinery mills, earning the city its nickname 'Cottonopolis'. After a fire led to its reconstruction, it was later used by John Hetherington & Sons until the early 1920s, when operations ceased with the decline of the textile industry. Listed in 1994, the building stands as a tribute to Manchester's rich cotton heritage.

 

Set on the second floor, the apartment is defined by its red brick exterior. Behind these walls lies the communal courtyard, thoughtfully landscaped with complementary planting, hidden benches, barbecues and cycling facilities. Helping retain the original essence, the building has been cleverly united with modern yellow insertions. These link to the existing structure, marrying the old and new and provide full-height volumes. The apartment can be accessed via glazed lifts and metal gridded bridges, which link the building and provide views overlooking the courtyard. There is also a 24-hour concierge at your convenience. 

 

The Space

 

Stepping through the front door, you are welcomed by a thoughtfully designed hallway, where concealed storage blends seamlessly into the walls. As you move through the space, your eye is drawn towards the main living area, where a perfectly framed window offers a first glimpse of the urban landscape beyond, filling the room with natural light.

 

The heart of the apartment is the open-plan living and kitchen area, anchored by exposed brickwork original to the mill’s heritage and timber beams overhead, creating a sense of warmth and character. Uplighting accentuates the ceiling height, adding an extra layer of dimension and light to the space. Large powder-coated aluminium windows span the width of the room, offering serene northwest-facing views over the water, with historic mills and the city’s emerging skyline beyond, making it the ideal spot for relaxation.

 

On one side, the living area is thoughtfully zoned with a cosy recessed nook, adding depth to the space. The open-plan design is well-balanced, with crisp whitewashed walls offering a blank canvas for personal styling, while the carefully considered layout ensures a seamless flow between living, dining, and relaxing. Opposite, the kitchen is fitted with integrated appliances and ample storage, both overhead and under-counter, arranged along one wall. By the kitchen, a distinct dining zone has been carefully arranged to make the most of the natural light.

 

Engineered oak flooring runs throughout, creating a seamless flow between rooms. Moving back through the hallway, the main bathroom is thoughtfully designed with a bath and overhead shower, framed by sleek black vertical stack tiles that add a contemporary touch. Practical features include a heated towel rail, vanity shelf with built-in storage, and a storage cupboard, while whitewashed walls enhance the sense of light and space.

 

Both bedrooms retain their original character, highlighted by exposed timber beams that add architectural interest. The principal bedroom suite includes an en-suite shower room, thoughtfully designed with a walk-in rainfall shower, a heated towel rail, a sleek vanity shelf, built-in storage, and black vertical stack tiling. The second bedroom offers flexibility, ideal as a guest room or home office, adapting effortlessly to suit your needs.

 

The Area 

 

Crusader Mill is located in the rapidly redeveloping 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.