Our Deptford Foundry development is not only home to a thriving artist studio space, but also a vibrant and homely café, adding to the growing community in this part of the borough. We stopped by for a lovely coffee with Lilly Hudson, the manager of Lilly’s Café, bringing delicious food with a home from home vibe.
Can you tell us a bit about your background?
I have worked in catering and hospitality since 2006, when I ran a takeaway hot food business in Brixton. I took a short break to undertake an interior design course, which was fantastic as I have been able to apply the theories to bring the appearances of my cafés to life. Lilly’s Café has an art deco style with a 20th century vibe to it.
For the past 3 years, I have been welcoming the good people of Deptford to the Vive Living café, and now exclusively managing Lilly’s café, to provide delicious snacks, hot drinks and lunches.
How did the opportunity to manage the café at Deptford Foundry come about?
The café at Vive Living, nearby Deptford Foundry, has a workspace which naturally attracts working professionals. Many of the Anthology team began grabbing lunch and popping in for catch ups when the project started a couple of years back. They had a canteen, but they would still come to me! We developed a relationship and when Ben (Development Director) and Harry (Development Manager) approached me to manage the commercial space at the Deptford Foundry, it was fantastic! I definitely felt honoured.
How are you finding the space at Deptford and the community?
I would say the design of Deptford Foundry and this contemporary style of living seems to be what this area needed. Clean lines and great architectural design is in keeping with the theme of what was there before.
This community is a very diverse environment to live in. I have met many locals and newcomers, when having our daily chats we all agree this development has made a difference. With all of its amenities and good travel links, it sure is a lovely place to live.
What does Lilly’s Café at Deptford Foundry offer?
Whether you just need to pop in for a coffee on your way to work, lounge with a sweet treat or enjoy a catch up with friends, there is a great variety of food and drinks for all tastes. We have our solid staples; BLTs, tuna melts and omelettes, but our cakes are constantly changing and everything in the café is made with the highest quality ingredients.
It can get very busy when the sun shines, but I’m also looking forward to Christmas and winter where you can decorate. Last year I did a wreath, garlands and lights all along the café - that was really quite pretty. I’m thinking about what to plan for this year. I’ll keep the menu what it is, as it's been a great success - but I might add something festive nearer to Christmas.
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The new café, launched last September, offers a vibrant place for new residents and the surrounding community of Deptford Foundry to visit. The development currently has a collection of one, two and three bedroom homes with Help to Buy available. For more information contact: 020 7526 9229 / deptfordfoundry@lifestory.group
