Home, sweet home: iconic factory becomes thriving new community

The world-renowned Rowntree factory on Haxby Road, York, is preparing to have a new lease of life, in the form of a new community made up of 279 studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

Named The Cocoa Works in honour of its history and the iconic confectionary brands that were produced there throughout the 20th century, it will soon welcome the first homeowners.

The building has been faithfully redeveloped by Latimer, the development arm of Clarion Housing Group, with features that pay homage to its industrial history being combined with contemporary design.

With interior design by Tegerdine Associates, the building blends old and new, with its intricate structure meaning no two apartments are exactly the same. Each one comes with industrial elements and fi

As well as the high quality, characterful apartments, the Cocoa Works building will house the Joseph Rowntree Memorial Library, providing flexible space for hybrid working and socialising, with a concierge base and residents’ lounge included.

Beautiful, revitalised gardens are also being completed on the site, giving residents a refreshing space to relax and socialise with family and friends.

The first show apartment opened to the public earlier this year, allowing interested buyers to get a glimpse of life in the Cocoa Works, and now with 70 per cent of the apartments already sold, the first residents will soon begin moving in to start life there for real.

ARTIST IMPRESSION CAPTION : In 9pt Tablet Gothic Semi Condensed with a kicker of up to three words then rest of caption to follow. LANDMARK LOCATION: The Rowntree’s factory has been a well-loved part of the York cityscape for more than a century and is now being transformed into a desirable – and affordable – place to live.

SNEAK PEEK: The bright, spacious show apartment, designed by Tegerdine Associates, is available to view by appointment now.

ROOM WITH A VIEW: many of the apartments in The Cocoa Works have views like this, looking toward York Minster.

OUTDOOR LIFE: Artist’s impression of the outdoor space.