Leeds Buildings Tower Works
Another iconic Holbeck landmark is set for regeneration
Leeds Buildings: Tower Works
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A couple of issues ago, you may remember we were praising some of Leeds’ spectacular contemporary architecture that has been nominated for the Royal Institute of British Architecture (RIBA) Yorkshire White Rose Awards. Unquestionably, Leeds is home to some of the most innovative architecture in all of Yorkshire, but what really makes these modern designs stand out is their juxtaposition with much older, more traditional landmarks. The significance of such historical sites should not be undervalued – they add so much character to Leeds’ skyline.
Erected in 1864, Tower Works is one such site – with its past representing the industrial era and its present signifying a promising future for the urban village of Holbeck.
Regardless of what it represents, Tower Works itself makes strong architectural statements through its towers modelled on iconic Italian landmarks. The site was originally constructed by Thomas Shaw to make steel pins for the textile industry. Some 30 years following the initial construction, William Bakewell extended the works and in so doing, built the impressive trio of towers many visitors see prior to their arrival at Leeds’ railway station.
Quite obviously, the three towers were heavily influenced by Bakewell’s affinity for Italian architecture. The largest and most ornate tower is practically an exact replica of Giotto’s Campanile in Florence, albeit on a smaller scale in red brick. The smaller ornate tower is easily recognisable in its resemblance to the Torre dei Lamberti in Verona and the third, plain tower is said to have been inspired by a Tuscan tower house.
Historically, the towers have served more than just decorative purposes, however: the Giotto tower was originally used as a way to extract dust from the factory. In fact, its ventilation system was far ahead of its time in terms of reducing pollution output from the factory. The towers are among Leeds’ many listed structures – the two ornate towers being Grade II * listed and the plain tower Grade II.
With such a rich history, the regional development agency Yorkshire Forward recognises the cultural importance of the Italianate towers. That’s why they’ve built their Holbeck Urban Village redevelopment design around them. Though the original Tower Works factory has been demolished as part of the initial phase of the project, the towers remain. Yorkshire Forward has partnered with ISIS to transform the area into a bustling, bold neighbourhood – a project which is predicted to cost no less than £19.8m.
It’s an ambitious plan, but keep in mind that ISIS is the same waterside regeneration company responsible for Granary Wharf’s massive overhaul. Plans for this part of Holbeck are every bit as ambitious: when completed, Tower Works and the surrounding area will be transformed into a bold, distinct and attractive neighbourhood with improved connections to the city centre, housing, cultural facilities and open spaces. New jobs will be brought to the area as 100,000 sq ft plus of offices, studios, retail and leisure space are to be constructed as part of the redevelopment scheme. The proposed main public space will be surrounded by cafes, bars, an organic micro brewery and an artisan bakery and the entire setting will be complemented by two of Tower Works’ historic Italianate towers.
So, while Tower Works currently stands as an important element of Leeds’ heritage, in a few years’ time it could even stand for much more – a bright future for Holbeck Urban Village and a confident step to improve Leeds as a whole.
1 Water Lane, LS11 5BW
Posted on Wednesday 1st September 2010
Rebecca Shoemaker
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