The city banker who’s moved up in the world

When corporate banker Nigel Barton decided to move up in the world, he did it literally – buying a stunning duplex penthouse ten floors up at Barratt’s spectacular Capital East development overlooking the Royal Docks in London Docklands.

He previously lived in an apartment on the southern end of the Isle of Dogs, but wanted something bigger and better. “I wanted three main things, really: terrific water views, height, and convenience for work at Canary Wharf. I’ve got all three” he says.

“I was especially taken with the sheer spaciousness of the Royal Docks, this massive expanse of water, and the incredible convenience of having the DLR right outside the door. I get from my door to my desk in 20 minutes.”

Originally from Sevenoaks in Kent, Nigel, 53, moved into Docklands in 2002 to be closer to the major international bank where he has worked for 20 years.

“At that time, I wouldn’t have thought about moving to the Royals – it was not an obvious choice. But now, it has been transformed. ExCel is here, the transport is good, Barratt have led the development with Capital East and, of course, there is Olympic fever” said Nigel.

“There’s a clear perception that over the next seven years or so, the area around the Olympics zone is going to be absolutely buzzing with activity.”

Nigel, who is divorced, bought his two-bedroom penthouse for £650,000. Barratt paid three-quarters of his Stamp Duty.

The apartment is spread over the ninth and tenth floors of the Adriatic tower at Capital East and comprises two spacious bedrooms, two fully-fitted bathrooms, a fully-equipped designer kitchen and balconies and a terrace from which to enjoy the stunning views.

He owns two parking spaces in the underground carpark and says the 24-hour concierge service was a feature that attracted him. He is also looking forward to using one of the Capital East’s two fully-equipped gyms.

Nigel is not the only one enjoying the high life at Capital East. His two sons, aged 18 and 21, are regular visitors. Says Nigel: “The oldest is at university and the youngest lives with his mum in Sevenoaks, and they both think it’s great to stay with Dad at a London place like this.”

Capital East has entered its final phase with just three luxury penthouses – at prices up to £1.5 million – just launched.

The penthouses comprise: A duplex two bedroom apartment extending to 1,177 sq ft, priced at £899,995; a duplex two-bedroom apartment of 1,189 sq ft at £949,995; and a duplex three-bedroom apartment of 1,813 at £1.5m.

For more information, visit Barratthomes.co.uk.