You don’t have to walk far in London to see how the city’s workspace scene is changing. In fact, you’re more likely to find a creative agency in an old warehouse than in a shiny new build these days.

There’s been a massive shift in what businesses want from an office. It’s no longer about “just a desk and four walls.” People want something that feels authentic—space with a bit of soul. And some of the best examples of that are coming from buildings that, a few years ago, no one would’ve touched.

Take The Loom on Gowers Walk, E1. It used to be a Victorian wool warehouse and now it’s home to a mix of media firms, designers, and tech companies. You’ve still got the exposed brick and cast-iron columns, but now with polished concrete floors, good light, cycle storage, showers—the works.

Or look at The Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane. That entire estate has become a creative and event-led campus. It’s still got all the industrial charm, but now it’s also home to studios, offices, even fashion brands. There’s always something going on.

One of my personal favourites? The Billiard Factory in N7. It’s tucked away behind Holloway Road, which is not the first place you’d expect to find sleek, contemporary workspace, but the character there is incredible. Sawtooth roofs, steel beams, and tonnes of natural light. And the landlord has done a brilliant job keeping that raw aesthetic while making it functional.

It’s a trend across London. Old breweries, printing houses, tram depots – you name it. They’re being stripped back and reimagined for modern occupiers who don’t want vanilla space.

It’s not just about looks either. These buildings often have big open volumes you can’t replicate in new builds—perfect for collaboration zones, studios, breakouts, even podcast booths. I’ve seen loading bays turned into lounges, mezzanines turned into private offices. There’s flexibility you just don’t get in a glass tower in EC3.

And the demand is strong. Tenants want to feel connected to the area they’re in. They want the building to reflect their culture. And if it’s got a bit of grit and history? Even better.

From a landlord’s point of view, if you’ve got a tired industrial asset, this is the time to reposition. Bring in the right design team, think about what your occupiers actually need (clue: it’s not just Cat A anymore), and there’s real value to unlock.

We’re in a market now where brand and atmosphere carry as much weight as spec. London’s old stock isn’t a burden; it’s a massive opportunity. You just have to know what to do with it.