This wonderfully preserved two-bedroom apartment in Whitechapel is on the first floor of Dron House, a 1920s mansion block designed by the architect Sydney Perks. A minimalist aesthetic prevails, highlighting the original period features that have been carefully preserved and retained throughout, including the herringbone parquet flooring and quarry tiles in the kitchen. The apartment has a private balcony and access to an expansive communal rooftop with far-reaching uninterrupted views of the City. The building is excellently located between Whitechapel and Stepney Green, with the cultural hubs of Spitalfields, Shoreditch and Bethnal Green all within easy walking distance.

The Tour

Built in 1922 by the architect Sydney Perks, Dron House is characterised by its handsome red brick façade and white-painted mullion windows, typical of the era. The building comprises several large blocks arranged around immaculate gardens and a playground area. The apartment itself is reached via an internal stone staircase.

The front door opens onto a central corridor with carefully preserved herringbone parquet flooring, which flows throughout. The light-filled living area is defined by its white-washed walls and generous windows, which extend over the south-easterly elevation of the building. A carefully preserved storage cupboard with its original door and handles sits neatly in the corner.

The minimalist galley kitchen lies on the opposite side of the plan with understated white cabinetry topped by solid wood worktops; open stainless-steel shelving offers easily accessible storage. Original quarry tiles ground the space and add a sense of contrast to the predominantly neutral palette. From here, a glazed door opens onto a private balcony enclosed by striking red metalwork.

The apartment had two bedrooms; the main bedroom lies adjacent to the living space and has full-height built-in wardrobes. The second bedroom is currently configured as an office but could easily fit a single bed. The bathroom makes use of a simple palette of white tiling and chrome fixtures.

There is also a separate storage shed and a secure bike store within the grounds.

Outdoor Space

The apartment has a private balcony that easily accommodates a small dining table and chairs. It offers a wonderful sense of extension to the internal plan.

Residents of Dron House also have access to a spectacular communal roof terrace, which features the building’s distinctive chimney tops. With uninterrupted 360 views of the City and beyond, the terrace offers a wonderful vantage point to enjoy the sun throughout the day.

The Area

A thriving range of traditional pubs, cafes and restaurants exist in Whitechapel and Stepney Green. Neighbourhood favourites include Tayyabs, East London institution Rinkoffs Bakery and Townsend at The Whitechapel Gallery.

Bethnal Green is slightly further afield and home to institutions like E Pellicci and The Approach Tavern, joined by a new wave of bars and restaurants, including Brawn, Redchurch Brewery and Sager + Wilde on Paradise Row. The Young V&A Museum is a short walk away, as is York Hall leisure centre and the independent Genesis Cinema.

Regents’ Canal, Columbia Road Flower Market, Brick Lane and Shoreditch are all within walking distance. Many of East London’s finest parks, including Mile End Park, Bethnal Green Gardens, Weaver’s Fields, Victoria Park, and the historic churchyard of St Dunstans. Stepney Green City Farm is also close by.

The newly opened Elizabeth line sits within a five-minute walk from the apartment. It runs direct lines from Whitechapel to Canary Wharf and Central London in ten minutes and Heathrow Airport in 30 minutes. Whitechapel Overground runs services between Clapham Junction and Highbury and Islington, and its Underground station is on the Circle, District and Hammersmith & City lines. Shadwell DLR station is also a short walk away for easy access to Shoreditch and Dalston.

Tenure: Leasehold
Lease Length: approx. 90 years remaining
Ground Rent: Peppercorn
Service Charge: approx. £1,200 per annum
Council Tax Band: B

Please note that all areas, measurements and distances given in these particulars are approximate and rounded. The text, photographs and floor plans are for general guidance only. The Modern House has not tested any services, appliances or specific fittings — prospective purchasers are advised to inspect the property themselves. All fixtures, fittings and furniture not specifically itemised within these particulars are deemed removable by the vendor.