Tailors Corner, located within the Leeds City Centre Conservation Area, had seen a number of detracting additions to its façade since being built in 1881; where it was originally designed as a warehouse followed by retail for Hepworth’s clothing. The design includes a complete refurbishment of the façade, including the reinstatement of a traditional shop front more in keeping with the original age of the building, refurbished interior, and new roof terraces.

The re-introduction of traditional shop fronts in the first two bays will activate the front facing façade, bring life and interaction back to the streetscape and into the building. In keeping with the local style, the shop fronts will include painted fascia, transom light and painted timber frames. Within one of the window bays a door has been included, that leads to a new platform lift to allow disabled access to all floors. This access creates a fully accessible building; allowing all building users to benefit from the new sixth floor roof terrace.

Internally, minor layout changes were made to provide a larger reception area and more flexible use of the duplex units at ground and basement floors. This flexibility ensures the building maintains its value over the years and is beneficial dependent on who the occupants are. The 1930’s art deco theme has continued internally via a custom-made reception desk and lift signage, reminiscent of the building’s previous designs.

A new sixth floor is added and set back providing a private terrace that wraps around the new floor, it's finished with a standing seam patinated copper finish cladding with an elegant geometrical pattern. The design concludes with a new communal roof terrace above the sixth floor with feature planting and seating areas. This new green space hopes to encourage more biodiversity in the city and create a calm space above the city with prime views of the Leeds skyline.

Read More

Image Gallery