08/09/2023

New Lease of Life for Grade II Listed Building at The Cocoa Works in York

Historic Joseph Rowntree Grade II listed Library to be renovated to include a new glass house and pavilion.

We recently produced the Bills of Quantities for the Grade II listed library building, which was established in 1927 in memory of Joseph Rowntree. This project is part of a much wider development which is the Cocoa Works, the former Iconic Rowntree Factory that has laid dormant for more than a decade which is being turned into 279 luxury apartments.

The Library will be repaired and renovated, the ground floor will be open-plan and welcoming, while the first-floor study space will provide a quiet and peaceful environment for those looking to read, work, or study. Its Grade II listed status has been carefully preserved.

The renovation project also includes an extension and will be designed to a stunning glass house design that will feature a modern aesthetic look that is sure to impress visitors. This innovative addition will serve the following areas, a concierge with an exhibition space to display the site’s history, a parcel room, a staff room with changing facilities, and an accessible WC. It has been designed to echo the glasshouse at the Rowntree factory, where cocoa, vanilla, and sugar cane were all grown. As such, this new space will not only be functional but also serve as a beautiful and fitting tribute to the rich history of the community.

The building will also benefit from the construction of a pavilion at the back, which will feature an array of recreational amenities for the local residents of Cocoa Works. We have included pictures of the current state and the proposed changes. If you would like to learn more about this project, please click here.