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42 THE CALLS LEEDS, UNITED KINGDOM |
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ARCHITECTURE / INTERIOR DESIGN |
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David Clarke Associates
Juliet Jowett
Julia Laidlaw |
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Converted in 1991 from a vintage corn mill, 42 The Calls is an architecturally significant part of Leeds’ urban renaissance. Along the way it has even helped to coin a new category in hospitality: the “mini grand” hotel, a hip, design-driven alternative to large-scale grand hotels.
Local designers Juliet Jowett and Julia Laidlaw retrofitted the mill with extensive modern conveniences, while placing emphasis on structural aspects of the original basis, including exposed beams and old machinery. The exterior’s original brick and wood window sashes have been retained, while clean modern lines dominate public spaces – where they carefully complement the original structural details as well.
Every one of the 41 rooms has been uniquely designed, playing up charming factory elements such as grain chutes, massive wooden beams and girders. The interior design of the penthouse suite is defined by a high arched ceiling and a smorgasbord of original elements and modernist furniture, with views of the River Aire – a feature common to many other bedrooms as well. Each guestroom features handmade beds and a variety of comfort-enhancing touches: Including the quirky idea of offering fishing rods in the rooms that face the river. Beds are covered in Egyptian cotton sheets and sumptuous velvet-backed mohair throws. In addition, a private hatch to the side of each guestroom door not only provides a nifty solution for room service to pass through the requested delicacies, but is also evidence of the importance attached to real privacy, form and function in this urban retreat. |
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