Leeds Victoria Gate (phase one) delivered a high-quality, vibrant retail environment that extends the established shopping quarter of Leeds while returning the anchored John Lewis department store to the heart of the city.
The original masterplan proposed an extension of the shopping district to accommodate a diversity of other uses. Analysis conducted post Victoria Gate completion on changing retail and development markets informed the allocation of residential and office space, alongside some leisure and retail spaces. The listed buildings on site, however, will be retained and re-purposed.
Hammerson (the developer) invited Group Ginger to join the team alongside ACME (masterplan architects) to explore alternative uses and opportunities for the listed structures near Eastgate. Group Ginger are analysing the listed buildings in the masterplan while evaluating their potential to be converted into offices. National Deposit house and Lyons Works are two primary assets currently being assessed.
The approach explores the potential of a phased masterplan delivered incrementally. To secure inward investment, developing existing building assets from the outset will bring forward development in the short term, adding significant value to the broader masterplan area. The team is working closely with local authorities and the Economic Development team to bring forward the city’s Inclusive Growth Strategy delivery framework.
This original National Deposit House building was part of Sir Reginald Blomfield’s designs for the Headrow and Eastgate. One of four similar bank buildings, the building was designed to overlook the Headrow, Eastgate, and Vicar Lane corner intersections. Only two corners were completed as planned, with National Deposit House only partially completed and Blomfield in 1934. The eastern wing, however, was completed in the 1960s. Despite the dilapidated condition of the addition, the whole block is listed due to the significance of the corner intersection and the Blomfield masterplan.
Group Ginger have preserved the corner building and remodelled both the roof and 1960’s wing. The design proposal re-purposes previous retail, storage, and low-grade offices to provide a flagship headquarters with around 40,000 sq ft of workspace for four hundred staff. The design is informed and aligned to the original vision intended by Blomfield.
Group Ginger has met client objectives to improve the external facade and modernise the interior. Attention has also been given to the building’s working environment through provisions for social space, amenity, and well-being. The original lightwell is retained and restored to maintain and improve the connection between floors. By providing a comprehensive refurbishment inclusive of all M&E, the building’s environmental performance and comfort are enhanced, integral to the atrium and new rooftop structure.
Group Ginger
Group ginger is a practice of architects. Our name derives from the political term, a ginger group. Ginger groups work to identify alternative ideas for the benefit of their host. As such Group Ginger works with clients to identify opportunities which amplify development potential and celebrate activity.
