Crusader Mill, 70 Chapeltown Street, Manchester

Set on the upper floors of Crusader Mill in Piccadilly East, this two-bedroom duplex 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 spacious hallway, with engineered oak flooring underfoot. To the right is a utility cupboard and family bathroom; ahead, two south-facing bedrooms are arranged in parallel, both with exposed brickwork and large powder-coated aluminium windows fitted with plantation shutters for light control and privacy.

The main bedroom features an en-suite bathroom with black vertical stack tiling around a walk-in shower, a heated towel rail, and a recessed vanity with built-in storage. A second bedroom, currently used as an office, includes built-in storage, while the family bathroom mirrors the en-suite palette – here paired with rich green walls and a bath with overhead shower.

A staircase rises to the fourth floor, where a skylight overhead draws natural light into the apartment. At the top, the space opens into the pitched roof of the mill, revealing exposed trusses, four overhead skylights, and black bar-mounted spotlights suspended from the apex. This upper level houses an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area.

The kitchen is arranged along the rear wall, where a glossy green tiled splashback meets white worktops and grey cabinetry. Integrated appliances are seamlessly incorporated, while a central island adds additional storage, worktop space, and seating. The rest of the room flows naturally into dining and lounge areas, creating a sociable heart to the home.

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.