White Building

“Confectionery dreams,” whispered a ghostly voice, swirling around the White Building’s stark white walls. The White Building in Hackney Wick isn’t just a trendy spot for craft beer and pizza. It’s a place where the echoes of the past mingle with the vibrant energy of the present. This unassuming structure holds a rich history, woven into the very fabric of Hackney Wick. Originally built in the late 19th century, the White Building housed the Clarnico Works, a confectionery factory that once sweetened the lives of Londoners. Clarnico wasn’t just a business; it was a vital part of the community, providing employment and even boasting its own touring brass band. Imagine the melodies spilling out onto the streets, filling the air with festive cheer. After Clarnico’s era, the building transitioned through various incarnations, including a printing company in the 1980s. Then, it sat vacant, a silent witness to Hackney Wick’s transformation. In 2012, the White Building experienced a rebirth. It became a hub for digital arts under SPACE Studios, breathing new life into its historic walls. This creative spirit continued with the arrival of CRATE Brewery. Starting with a small pizzeria and microbrewery, CRATE quickly became a local favorite. The aroma of freshly baked pizza mingled with the hoppy scent of brewing beer, drawing crowds to the canalside. CRATE expanded within the building, partnering with the Michelin Green star-approved SILO restaurant, a champion of zero-waste dining. The White Building today is a testament to its adaptable nature, effortlessly blending its industrial heritage with a modern, creative spirit. The ghosts of confectionery workers might still linger, but they share the space now with artists, brewers, and diners, all contributing to the White Building’s ongoing story. So, raise a glass to the White Building, a place where the past and present intertwine to create something truly unique in the heart of Hackney Wick.