Where work meets play: new Old Street micro neighbourhood with 930 homes, offices and outdoor wifi for al fresco workers

Walk along Ironmonger Row, just north of Barbican, to the canal basin at City Road in EC1 and you will discover the ancient parish of St Luke's, with it's 18th-century Hawksmoor church, now a recording studio for London Symphony Orchestra, and a splendid Art Deco public baths at its centre.

Until about 1990, this Zone 1 district was a lively commercial quarter, but with startling suddenness it fell almost silent, leaving a sad streetscape of industrial buildings that nobody wanted.

The trades and crafts that had flourished over the previous two centuries died or departed as technology changed.

City University, with its growing campus radiating out from Georgian Northampton Square, is one of the enduring institutions and helps set the tone of an area that still feels like a secret.

In recent years, a revival has been under way, fuelled by the rise of the nearby Shoreditch tech cluster, with mainly small-scale developments of loft-style offices and apartments.

A new micro neighbourhood with 930 homes is a step up in scale. Called 250 City Road, it includes two towers, a spa, rooftop gym and sky terrace, offices, for digital companies and start-ups, shops, bars and eateries plus a four-star hotel.

At its heart is a two-acre "urban oasis", attractively landscaped, with secluded courtyards and retreat areas, all fully wifi-enabled for relaxed alfresco working during the summer months.

Designed by Foster + Partners architects, each of the buildings is set at an angle to maximise views of London landmarks, from the Wembley Arch to the Gherkin. Glass-clad blocks have winter gardens, and the towers are subtly lit internally.

Young City professionals and Shoreditch designers are the mainstay of this revitalised district.

"Previously, they headed west. They like the new, modern apartment buildings and being able to walk to work," says Nick Davies of estate agent ND London.

Prices from £870,000. Call Berkeley Homes on 020 3040 6250.