Leeds landmark sets new workspace standard

A historic city centre building in Leeds has been converted into high-quality modern workspace.

St Paul’s House, the Grade II* listed landmark overlooking Park Square, has undergone a £3.5 million refurbishment led by EPIC UK.

The 19th century building now offers some of the city’s best Grade A office space, enhancing facilities for existing occupiers including DAC Beachcroft, Cushman and Wakefield and Sedulo.

Leigh Perl, chief operating officer of EPIC UK, said: “At the heart of the refurbishment and, indeed everything we do at St Paul’s House, is the integrity of the building. 

“It is one of the most distinctive, light, airy and iconic buildings in Leeds and we have honoured that.

“At the same time it was important that we created some of the most hi-tech and sustainable Grade A office space in the city, underpinned by a commitment to ESG, and that is what we have done with substantial upgrades to the reception, first and second floors, to end-of journey facilities, and to the exterior of the building, which has been thoroughly cleaned.

“In particular, we are now fully connected with the Leeds PIPES network, which provides homes, businesses, and public buildings with heat and hot water that is affordable, reliable and low carbon.”

Built in 1878 as a warehouse and cloth-cutting works for Sir John Barran, the entrepreneur credited with establishing Leeds’ mass-production, ready-made clothing industry, the building retains its architectural heritage while meeting contemporary business needs.

The project team included Knight Frank, project manager Mike Robinson of In4M, designer Incognito, fit-out contractor Flexible Business Interiors and M&E Smith Consultancy. 

Elizabeth Ridler, office agency partner at the Leeds office of Knight Frank, added: “St Paul’s House, built in the Venetian style, is a much-loved Leeds landmark. 

“Now the refurbishment is complete, it is a magnificent mixture of the old and the new.

“This significant investment has created high-quality Grade A office specification internally which, when combined with the stunning exterior façade and its unrivalled location with gorgeous views over the green space of Park Square, offers one of the most attractive working environments in Leeds.”

Elizabeth added: “This elegant building, with its Moorish façade, is full of history. 

“But with a comprehensive concierge service and superb offices both serviced and spacious, it is ideally suited to the needs of contemporary occupiers.”

Howard Powsney, director at Incognito, added: “Our goal with the refurbishment was to elevate St Paul’s House to meet the expectations of today’s occupiers, while respecting its architectural heritage. 

“The result is a workplace that seamlessly blends historic character with modern, high-quality space – delivering immediate value for tenants. 

“The fitted suite, in particular, showcases a thoughtful approach to plug-and-play design, offering a level of finish and functionality that stands out in the market.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →