The building was designed by
Harry S. Fairhurst, "the leading expert in the design of these advanced warehouses". Fairhurst was also responsible for
Bridgewater House which stands opposite India House, and the neighbouring
Lancaster House. Fairhurst's huge buildings are "steel-framed and built to high-quality fireproof specifications". It was constructed for Lloyd's Packing Warehouses Limited and like many warehouses was built to a common design with steps to a raised ground floor with showroom and offices, and the first floor contained more offices and waiting rooms for clients and sample and pattern rooms all decorated to impress customers. The working areas above were plain with large windows to allow in natural light. Orders were packed there and sent to the basement on hoists powered by
Manchester's hydraulic power system and packed into bales using hydraulic presses before dispatch. The warehouse was lit by gas. India House is part of a conservation area in
Manchester city centre that reflects the historical importance of the textile industry in the city. The conservation area was designated by
Manchester City Council in September 1974, and was bounded by
Oxford Street,
Portland Street, Abingdon Street, Bloom Street, Chorlton Street, Cobourg Street and the Piccadilly to Oxford Road railway viaduct. It was extended in June 1985 to include an area bounded by Whitworth Street, London Road and the above viaduct. ==Conversion to apartments==