He became a pupil of James T. Parkinson, architect, of Ely Place, who, in addition to a moderate private practice, was entrusted at that time with the laying out of the Portman estate.
After the termination of his articles, with the object of perfecting himself in the financial branches of his profession, he served two years with George Smith of Mercers' Hall, and in 1816, accompanied by his friend and colleague George Ledwell Taylor, he undertook a walking tour through England for the purpose of studying, measuring, and drawing the cathedrals and most interesting buildings.
The chief aim of their studies was to present the dimensions of each building in English measurements, and the foliage and ornaments one quarter of the real size.
Cresy hastily accepted an engagement in Paris, where he designed the Square d'Orléans, which although successful interfered with his professional prospects at home.
His eldest son, Edward, followed his father's profession, and became principal assistant clerk at the Metropolitan Board of Works, and architect to the fire brigade.