Mix use

Outline

The Calls, an ancient street along the River Aire in Leeds, has seen a transformative revival from its industrial decline in the early 20th century.

Initially a bustling dock area, it fell into dereliction and crime as industry moved to the outskirts of Leeds.

The revitalization efforts that began in the 1990s have aimed to restore its historical connection to the river and reintegrate it into the city's urban fabric. The existing buildings, once oriented towards river trade, now form a visual barrier, disconnecting the street activities from the water.

The site presents an opportunity to re-establish this lost connection, particularly due to its strategic location and orientation which offers potential for unobstructed river views and improved pedestrian access.

The proposed architectural design addresses these urban challenges by introducing a "building within a building" concept.

The outer structure, a glass box, extends the existing urban wall while the inner building aligns with the character of the surroundings using materials like red timber or brick.

Central to the design is a top-to-bottom void that facilitates natural ventilation, complemented by an active climate wall to manage extreme temperatures efficiently.

The ground floor features a split level to bridge the elevation difference between the street and riverside, enhancing the public space and visual connection to the river.

Environmentally, the design maximizes natural ventilation and incorporates sun shading to prevent overheating. Additionally, the new pedestrian route reconnects the area with the river, integrating a timber quay and clear sightlines to strengthen the relationship between street life and the waterfront.

the Call

United Kingdom

Outline