The Rotherhithe warehouse was situated next to a church, an old school and fire engine house.

The project broke new ground and was a considerable risk at the time.

The internal structural timbers were retained along with the external walls.  The location and appearance of the doors and windows were maintained, and the redundant warehouse was given a new lease of life as craft workshops.

This conversion by the Trust encouraged other refurbishment schemes in the area, thereby securing its historic character.

The St Mary's conservation area has since been designated one of London's outstanding conservation areas.