New loft living

Located in London’s Square Mile, this 18th-century warehouse once brimmed with the treasures of The East India Company. Today, it’s all about comfort

This revamped 18th-century warehouse has a fresh, comfortable take on inner-city style

Jewellery designer Matthew Calvin’s home, situated in a Grade Ii-listed, 18th-century warehouse, was constructed during the glory days of The East India Company, when the trade in exotic imports was booming. Built in 1771, The Tapestry Building was one of a series of vast properties, all located between Leadenhall and Spitalfields, that brimmed with treasures gathered from far-flung shores. It housed textiles, silks and spices from India and the Orient. Other warehouses nearby once stored everything from ostrich feathers and cigars to clocks, perfumes and tea.

The Tapestry Building’s 14 apartments feature exposed brickwork, vaulted timber ceilings, cast-iron columns and large cargo doors (originally used to load imported goods directly into the upstairs spaces). ‘I fell in love with its functional feel,’ says Matthew, who also cites his home’s central location as a huge attraction. The apartment is just a short stroll from Spitalfields Market and the commotion and aromas of the curry houses on Brick Lane. ‘I can be on the tube at Liverpool Street station in under a minute, and walk to work at my studio in Shoreditch in seven minutes. That’s almost unheard of in London,’ he says.

Matthew’s fourth-floor flat features an open-plan living, dining and kitchen area, plus two large bedrooms. He purchased the property in 2014 and commissioned architect Christian Sintes of LUV Architecture & Design to update the interior.

The dark Austrian oak floorboards are a new addition, replacing the garish peach laminate flooring that greeted Matthew when he moved in. It contrasts beautifully with the white-painted brick walls and beams. Christian designed the white lacquer cupboards and cabinets in the living area and created a bespoke kitchen using sumptuously dark Emperador marble and walnut veneer. He also helped Matthew source elegant design pieces, many mid-century in style, from lounge chairs by Carl Hansen & Søn and Charles and Ray Eames to contemporary seating by brands such as B&B Italia.

The palette throughout the apartment is muted, a mix of whites and greys punctuated by monochrome artworks and an occasional splash of yellow from bright wool throws and bedding. Understated Roman blinds and delicate linen curtains frame the windows, the latter softening the former warehouse’s functional look. ‘The best thing about living here is having a really luxurious, open-plan space right in the centre of the city,’ Matthew says. ‘My favourite spot is my bedroom. It’s surprisingly peaceful at the back of the building, away from the hustle and bustle outside. Walking into the apartment after a long day at work is very relaxing – the calming colours help me to unwind.’ matthewcalvin.com; luv-projects.com

The dark Austrian oak floorboards, a new addition, contrast beautifully with the whitepainted exposed brick walls and original beams

The palette throughout the apartment is muted, a calming mix of whites and greys punctuated by occasional splashes of yellow

‘The best thing about living here is having a really luxurious, open-plan space right in the centre of the city’