Welcome To Leeds Society of Architects

Bauman Lyons Architects acquired a site just off Chapletown Road, in 2004. To coincide with the company’s existing lease terminating on their offices in Chapel Allerton, a new office block was completed for BLA to occupy in December 2006.

This investment will be the first major new build commercial building in Chapletown for nearly two decades, and reflects the commitment Bauman Lyons has to Chapletown.The building, approximately 3,000 square feet of space on three floors, is intended to be a strong statement of modern design, reflecting the building’s position in a traditional conservation area. It is entirely slate clad with large glazed screens. Car parking is provided to the rear of the site.

During a long planning consultation period an extensive landscape scheme has been agreed on that will contribute to the location’s green spaces.

Landmark project funded by SRB and English Partnership. Provision includes media production facilities comprising of recording studios, video recording, editing suites, conference and training facilities, rehearsal studio, exhibitions space and cafe.

BLA were instrumental in developing the masterplan framework for the regeneration of Chapeltown and are now executing a number of specific projects within the framework. An early decision was taken to demolish a late addition to the east end of the building, in order to create opportunity for a strong piece of contemporary architecture which would signal the new and dynamic presence of a landmark scheme. The blue was chosen for its electric quality and association with media.

The brief is to provide preschool Surestart nursery provision for up to 60 children in partnership with the Local Education Authority.

In addition, it will provide the main offices for the local Surestart programme and community support services with a crèche facility.

Sure Start Nursery has recently been shortlisted for the RIBA White Rose Awards.

Colonel Thomas Harding's Italianate towers form a distinctive landmark on the Leeds skyline. The design of the factory was heavily influenced by his love for Italian architecture and art.

The most notable features of Tower Works are the three towers that give it its name and served as chimneys for the factory. The largest and most ornate tower is based on the iconic Giotto campanile (bell tower) in Florence. The smaller ornate tower is based on the Lamberti Tower in Verona. A third plain tower, built as part of Harding's final phase of expansion in 1919, is thought to represent a Tuscan tower house. All three are listed structures, the two ornate towers being Grade II * and the plain tower Grade II.

Today the site that, for most people, epitomises Holbeck Urban Village and the industrial revolution in Leeds, stands empty. The site was acquired by Yorkshire Forward in May 2005 and is set to become a flagship development for the area. Plans for a lighting installation, to illuminate the towers by night, have been developed as part of a public arts strategy for the area.