 The passengers on narrowboats that weave their way along the canals in the heart of Birmingham city centre do not know they are being watched. Neither do the ducks that break the evening's silence. High above the waterways a new community has emerged that is breathing fresh life into the heart of the city centre. CityLiving looks behind the doors of one couple who have discovered the good life. Visitors to the Watermarque apartment complex could be forgiven for giving it up as a lost mission and heading home. But hack through the security, including a talk with a more-than-helpful concierge, and take the lift to the fifth floor where a surprise really does wait for the determined. The apartment blocks that have grown up along the water's edge in Browning Street show how the ordinary can be turned into something special. The two-bedroom duplex apartment has reluctantly been put up for sale by Simon Morley and Rachel Currim who bought the former showhome two years ago. It was love at first sight. "We just couldn't believe how much space there was in the apartment," says Rachel, who was then living with Simon in the Jewellery Quarter. "It was a real surprise. There was so much space and we really liked the location." Visitors are often surprised by how quiet living in one of the apartments can be - the narrowboats chug gently along the canals and, says Rachel: "The loudest noise is often the ducks quacking. It is great and we really can't bear to think that we are having to sell the apartment. We love it." But sell it they must - the couple are pursuing their careers in Bristol and the commute is not a practical option. Rachel, who admits to plenty of barbecues on the L-shaped terrace, says: "We have had such a great time here. The funky bars and the places where we used to drink anyway before we moved are only a short walk away, which is great after a night out and saves on taxis." There are good reasons not to go out after a hard day at the office. The sun room, which leads off the first floor master bedroom, is the perfect place to chill out. It also leads on to the second terrace that also overlooks the canal. "We were tempted to turn it into a study but it is lovely to have a space to watch the sun go down and simply relax," said Rachel. The apartment has spacious bathrooms - no need to squeeze into a space transformed as an afterthought by developers. The double height ceilings and wealth of windows also ensure there is plenty of light streaming into the apartment. "People are always surprised at how much space there is in here." The versatile ground floor, which includes an open plan living room and dining area, even includes a second bedroom with a shower room. Sliding walls mean this bedroom space can be transformed into another use. "We really cannot get enough of the place," says Rachel. "When we first came here we were surprised at the space and we will really miss living here, we have had a great time." The couple have added their own furniture to the showhome looks and a cream carpet runs throughout the property. "One rule is no red wine when we have parties, not with these carpets," jokes Rachel. The property is on the market for £440,000 with Knight Frank.Telephone 0121 200 2220 or see the website at www.knightfrank.com | 
