Work gets underway to breathe new life into iconic building

Works to refurbish and reimagine Rose Wharf, one of Leeds’s most iconic office buildings, is underway.

Caddick Developments has instructed commercial interior design and build specialist Design Tonic on the £2.2m refurbishment project, which is expected to be completed and ready for occupation in spring 2025.

Design Tonic will deliver a complete re-design and new fit-out of the Grade II listed building including the provision of bright, high-quality flexible office space; a brand-new business lounge; shared workspaces; event spaces; an independent café and a striking outdoor terrace overlooking the River Aire.

One complete, the 50,890 sq ft building will boast stylish designs, clean lines and bright open spaces whilst maintaining its industrial charm and character.

As part of the refurbishment, the building will also undergo several sustainability upgrades including the addition of solar and PV panels, incorporating air source heat pumps and natural ventilation109 car spaces with EV charging points, and a cycle storage hub with changing facilities.

Design Tonic director and co-founder, Amanda Cook, said: “Rose Wharf is a hugely impressive and unique building, and we are delighted to partner with Caddick Developments to help create an unrivalled workplace for the city.

“Managing a project of this size and of such iconic status is a real honour. Our focus will be on creating superb flexible workspaces and facilities that will position Rose Wharf as a best-in-class office building of the future, whilst still paying homage to its important heritage. The team is on site and initial works are progressing well, we can’t wait to reveal the finished result next year.”

Situated on East Street, Rose Wharf is positioned at the gateway of Leeds’s climate innovation district and next to the Leeds Dock neighbourhood. This unique location combines peaceful and green surroundings with the all the bustle and convenience of the city close by.

Caddick’s senior asset and development manager, Hollie Shackleton, said: “Our plans for the redevelopment of Rose Wharf are ambitious and forward thinking and this vision played a huge part in the choice of our delivery partners. Design Tonic is renowned for high-quality design, and meticulous attention to detail and we are very pleased to have the team on board for this project.”