Architect Sheppard Robson completes work on Leeds city centre commercial scheme

Work is now completed on a 8,600m2 commercial development in Leeds city centre.

Architectural practice Sheppard Robson completed the work on the scheme, which will address the newly created public realm in a key strategic point in the council’s ongoing masterplan for the city.

Located on Sovereign Street, the scheme is a joint venture between development partners Bruntwood and Kier Properties and houses five levels of flexible floorplates, each measuring around 1,500m2, with four retail units at ground level and car parking at basement level.

The development is situated next to a newly created landscaped square which creates new routes from the city centre and the recently completed southern entrance to the railway station.

The south-west elevation of the building faces on to the new public realm, with main entrance addressing the civic space. The façade composition is replicated on the north-east façade, addressing the street Swinegate.

The other two elevations of the building are crafted out of Chester Red Blend brick, which is consistent with the neighbouring historic listed buildings.

The sustainable strategy for the BREEAM Excellent building includes an array of solar panels on the roof, recyclable materials and high-performance glazing to control solar gain and thus internal conditions.

Tony O’Brien, partner at Sheppard Robson, said: “Surrounded by both historic and modern Leeds, the building responds to both the calmness of the newly created public space and bustle that surrounds the site.

“The composition, materiality and ultimately the ambition of the building mark a pivotal site within the council’s masterplan.”