Introduction
The Majestic building has been an iconic feature of Leeds city centre with its magnificent classical façade since its construction in early 1920. Since then, it has been a bingo hall and nightclub. In mid-1993 the Majestic Cinema was designated a Grade II Listed building by English Heritage. Sadly, in 2014 the building was deliberately set ablaze destroying the original roof. With local architects, DLA Architects’ designs finalised, in 2018 developer Rushbond began work with main contractor Sir Robert McAlpine to convert the Majestic building into office space and extend vertically and in 2019 it was announced that the 66,000 sq. ft., Grade A space would become the Leeds headquarters for Channel 4 alongside renowned national law firm Knights Plc.
Solinear was delighted to be awarded the contract by Sir Robert McAlpine to design and produce a feature fin system for this icon of Leeds city life.
Task
Solinear was tasked with the challenge of designing and manufacturing a feature brise soleil system that was both effective and contemporary whilst simultaneously being understated and sympathetic to the classical nature of the façade of this iconic building; To have function and presence without dominating.
Action
The Solinear team rose to the challenge designing and manufacturing this incredible bespoke RHS aluminium Solex system finished in a stunning deep, warm bronze colour.
The completed system was then delivered to site and carefully and delicately installed by Solinear’s dedicated team of fitters, around the extensively glazed uppermost floors following the curve of the atrium crown on this extraordinary Grade II listed building.
Result
Solinear’s Solex system, enveloping Channel 4’s new national headquarters and containing creative and digital departments, will make working on these floors very comfortable for staff whilst offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding bustling Leeds city.
A spokesperson from Rushbond said: “The historic building has been the subject of a comprehensive redevelopment, with Rushbond appointing Sir Robert McAlpine as main contractor. The works saw the full restoration of the exterior, with sensitive interventions, and the creation of a new atrium and Palm Court space, celebrating the grand entrance and circulation space of the cherished Leeds asset.”
Jonathan Maud, chairman and managing director at Rushbond, said “The fundamental objective has been to breathe new life into the Majestic, reinventing the building so that it secures a sustainable future.
From the start, we have been focused on delivering a restoration that was worthy of the Majestic’s history, and to protect and preserve key elements that make the building so special.”
Solinear is proud to have been part of this special project in the heart of Leeds – giving this extraordinary building a new lease of life and the attention it so desperately needed and deserved.
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