st paul’s street
The refurbishment and redevelopment at 8 St Paul’s Street see an underutilised and undesirable existing office building transformed into a new Grade A office space. Situated within Leeds city centre, the office building will become the new head offices for W Denis, a national insurance broker. The scheme gained planning consent in 2023. brown + company were then appointed for architectural services for stages 4 & 5 and have worked collaboratively with contractor MLC and Interior Designer RuCreative to deliever an outstanding, best in class, office development in the heart of Leeds.
The scheme is due to be completed in early 2026
Team: Neil Brown, Rob Miller
“The experience of working with Brown and Company on the construction and redevelopment of our office block in Leeds exceeded our expectations from start to finish.
Throughout the project the team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, creativity, and technical expertise. They took the time to understand our operational requirements and translated them into a modern, functional, and visually impressive workspace that has transformed the building.
Their attention to detail, proactive communication, and ability to coordinate effectively with contractors and consultants ensured the project remained on track and was delivered to a high standard. They provided innovative solutions to challenges as they arose and consistently focused on achieving the best outcome for our business.
The finished development has completely transformed the appearance and functionality of the building, creating an environment that is welcoming, efficient, and fit for the future. We have received numerous positive comments from staff, tenants, and visitors.”
W Denis
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W Denis were seeking to move back into the city centre, close to where the business started in 1963, brown + company were approached to transform a 1960s office building into their new head office. Environmental conditions and providing a sustainable and visually impressive office building.
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Analysis of the existing building demonstrated the existing building was failing. The striking Portland cladding showed defects, meaning it was unsafe if left in the current state. Daylight analysis of the internal spaces also showed inadequate levels of daylight office space, meaning the building was unable to contend in the Leeds office market. Therefore, the decision was made to explore refacing the existing building.
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The development proposals introduce extensions to the existing roof and to the rear of the building, increasing the office space by 30% as well providing valuable external amenity through the introduction of rooftop terrace
St Paul’s Street is located within Leeds city centre conservation area and is reflective of the city’s industrial heritage, with several impressive warehouses located on the street. The façade design was influenced by the warehouse typology creating a strong vertical emphasis through the introduction of brick piers. Incorporation of GRC detailing sought to provide a richness and visual interest to the façade, which will constantly change as the shadows moves across the main south facing elevation.
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client: W Denis Ltd
contractor: MLC York
architect: brown + company
planning consultants: WSP
structures: Dudleys
mep: LMB
interiors: rucreative
project manager: Carter Towler
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