BY Sam Walker | Wednesday 30 July 2025
Hull’s newest landmark development, Monocle, has officially launched – welcoming its first tenants and the public into a bold, contemporary workspace and hospitality hub in the heart of the city.
Developed by Allenby Commercial, Monocle is already home to six forward-thinking businesses and includes Daze, its ground floor coffee house which is open to the general public.
The Monocle building has undergone a complete transformation, from its original mirrored façade to a new clear-glass front symbolising openness and connection.
Located next to Paragon Interchange, the project was backed by £750,000 from Hull City Council's government backed city centre grants scheme, which was matched-funded by the former HEY LEP through the Growing Places Fund.
Monocle offers up to 60,000 sq ft of high-specification workspace, a business lounge with co-working spaces, podcast studio, private gym, event space and a city garden.
The building’s distinctive curved shape inspired the name Monocle, a nod to its circular form and newfound transparency.
Originally called Europa House, the property celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Allenby Commercial has paid homage to that heritage in it design, with warm, 70s-inspired interiors and colour palettes, while delivering a thoroughly modern experience.
Some of the original windows have been recycled as mirrors in the members’ gym. Other eco-friendly features include reclaimed raised access floor panels. Solar panels cover the roof and there are charging points for e-bikes and scooters.
Nearly all the first-floor studios are occupied, with phase two of the stunning development already underway.
Charlie Allenby, development director at Allenby Commercial, said: “Monocle has always been about reimagining what a workspace should be.
“We’ve taken a 50-year-old building and transformed it into something truly modern – not just in look, but in how it works for people.
“It’s more than an office – it’s a place that reflects the way we want to live and work now.”
Georgia Allenby, design and marketing director, added: “The design of Monocle celebrates the building’s 1970s heritage, but with a bold, modern twist.
“It’s much more than just a place to work – it’s a destination designed to bring people together.
“Daze and the business lounge are the social core – stylish, curated spaces with real soul.
“We’ve poured so much into every detail, and it’s wonderful to see people already using the space exactly as we imagined: to collaborate, to relax and to be inspired.”
Daze, open Monday to Friday from 8am–6pm, will offer specialty coffee, matcha and Japanese teas, house-branded lager, signature cocktails and healthy food options.
Phase two of Monocle will see IT solutions provider PrimaryTech move in this September.
When fully occupied, the development will span all six floors of the building, with the potential to house 700 jobs.
To find out more about Monocle, visit https://allenbycommercial.co.uk/our-property/monocle-hull/
