Work is under way on transforming Hull city centre’s Europa House office into Monocle.
Allenby Commercial says that Monocle will deliver a bright new facility for the city and its people and breathe new life into a 50-year-old property which has stood as a landmark since the 1970s.
Georgia Allenby, Design and Marketing Director at Allenby Commercial, said: “Monocle is all about creating a workplace that is more than just your work space. The building is being redeveloped to bring a new experience and environment to Hull.
“The ground floor will be transformed into a high-end coffeehouse that will also be open to the public, alongside a welcoming business lounge with co-working spaces, break-out areas, a gym, meeting rooms and city garden.”
At Monocle, the first move in a transformation with the potential to create 700 jobs will involve building two new lifts and modern central staircase.
At the same time work will progress on providing managed office and studio space on the first floor and the remaining four floors will then be shaped to attract larger operators. Completion is due for late 2025, with PPH Commercial and CBRE in Leeds appointed as joint agents.
Europa House is instantly recognisable as the distinctive, gold-mirrored office block which has stood next to Hull Paragon Station at the corner of Anlaby Road and Ferensway since 1975.
Georgia added: “We see this as the future of office space. It’s old hat to create a sterile office building for people to sit in. People want and need more from their place of work. We’ve incorporated access to exercise with gym facilities and classes, and the good design and flow throughout the building will create an uplifting inspiring vibe.
“We have already got interest in the building, notably from professional firms and creative businesses who see Monocle as an opportunity to elevate their brand, promote staff wellbeing and improve productivity by moving into great space.”