Originally built in the late 19th Century and overlooked by the Quarry Hill flats from 1936 through to 1978, York Street Studios, the distinctive tall brick building, was a rag merchants warehouse supplying the shoddy mungo and paper-making industries. Fully renovated, the striking structure is now a local landmark and a creative hub – contributing to the transformation of Quarry Hill into the city’s Creative Quarter.

The building was rescued from near dereliction in 2007 by Arc Design who commissioned a bold scheme from Architecture 2B, creating a series of quirky, naturally lit studio spaces that champion the building’s rich industrial heritage within a contemporary framework. York Street Studios quickly became a symbol of the City’s emerging Creative Quarter, winning prestigious architectural awards from RIBA and Leeds City Council.

There is a strong sense of community both within the building and in the surrounding area. The open-plan breakout area and kitchen facilities on the ground floor encourage a dynamic, engaging and collaborative approach to the work environment that echoes the collective nature of the neighbouring creative community.

York Street Studios stands in a newly reconfigured streetscape that prioritises walking, cycling and convenient public transport links. The train and bus stations are both within easy walking distance and the building is also ideally located for quick access to the ring road and motorways.

– Bus station (3 min walk)
– Train station (15 min walk)
– Motorway links (5 min drive)
– Ring road (1 min drive)

Beyond the secure, cobbled entrance courtyard, the ground floor comprises a communal kitchen, WC and breakout meeting space; ideal for an informal meeting or just a quick coffee and catch up with colleagues. Four self-contained studios are housed above and accessed by a distinctive, galvanised steel staircase that allows natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows to flood the space and offers different views out over Leeds City Centre as you ascend.

Each of these four studios is 330 sq.ft. (31 sq.m.) of open-plan space featuring exposed brickwork, original timber beams and preserved machinery of the building’s industrial past. The studios have large, sound-proof windows and a Juliet balcony that offers natural light and views across the city. Being adjacent to the railway viaduct, the building allows close ups of passing trains – giving a unique experience to the workspace.

Studio 5 is a completely self-contained, 1400 sq.ft. (130 sq.m.) space featuring high ceilings, roof lights and the building’s original timber beams. There is secure off-street parking for up to six vehicles that can also be used as an outdoor event/breakout space. The open-plan interior, with its exposed brickwork and ample natural lighting, includes an acoustically-treated meeting area, private WC and a modern kitchen area complete with coffee bar/breakout space.