Saltaire's New Mill looked rather glorious in some weak winter sunshine, outlined against a moody sky. Built in 1868, when the main Salts Mill needed more capacity, it was again extended in 1871 to house a dye works. It was designed by Lockwood and Mawson, the architects responsible for both Salts Mill and the village of Saltaire, using similar materials. The grand chimney is modelled on the tower of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari in Venice.
It was extensively refurbished in 1992/3 and now contains offices for Bradford NHS (Health Authority) and 98 privately owned apartments on the canalside. I did at one stage consider buying one of them. They are very nice but most of them get little sunshine. They face north/south and the south side is shadowed by Salts Mill just across the canal. Despite being in Saltaire village they are actually quite cut-off too, with a long uphill walk into the village and shops. Fine if you have a car but not so good if you're an old lady with a walking stick. (Which I might be, one day.) I did hear once that the late lamented Paul O'Grady (drag comedian and presenter) had a holiday flat here and could occasionally be spotted walking his dog in the park.
That is a great shot.
ReplyDeleteAs we presently have an apartment in a former textile mill that produced flannel blankets, the re-use of a former mill is always a good thing. Thankfully, our 5th floor windows have good views of the Nashua River.
ReplyDeleteGood to know of the Venetian connection! I agree, choices of apartments include the environment and their orientation to sunlight! Hope yours comes through for you soon.
ReplyDeleteSpeaking of apartments, have you moved yet? You've been quite consistent in posting for someone who's had a move on the schedule. If so, hope you are enjoying your new place. And have plenty of sun.
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