Allenby Commercial embarks on the big reveal as scaffolding comes down at Monocle

The scaffolding is coming down and occupiers are getting ready to move in as the company behind a state-of-the-art, modern business hub prepares to launch the first phase of the project.

Allenby Commercial aim to welcome the first arrivals into Monocle next month, with businesses taking up residence on the first floor of the property, and the ground floor opening as a coffee house with a business lounge and event space.

Only one unit remains available on the first floor and space is also in demand on the second floor, which is on course to open in August. The completed project will offer 60,000 sq ft of high specification business accommodation across six floors in the middle of Hull city centre, with the potential to house 700 jobs.

Charlie Allenby, the company’s Development Director, said: “Everything about Monocle is the ultimate in terms of style, quality, functionality and environmental impact. We’ve drawn on the best, most innovative features from our other developments and from places we’ve researched across the UK and internationally.

“The property sector has never had to work harder to meet the needs of clients and their workers and this is a next-level approach which has generated a fantastic response. Almost all of the first floor is pre-let and demand is coming in for the second floor.”

As the landmark Europa House, which was built 50 years ago, the property became known for its huge glass surround of nearly 800 windows, all of which have now been replaced, with larger units capturing more natural light.

Some of the original windows have been recycled as mirrors in the 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.

Georgia Allenby, Design and Marketing Director at Allenby Commercial, said: “The opportunities at Monocle are being taken up by businesses in a variety of sectors, and on the upper floors we have some stunning, larger spaces available that have been designed with flagship headquarters in mind.

“The business lounge and coffee house are taking shape now and will be the heart and soul of Monocle – a relaxed space where great taste meets great design, serving speciality coffee, quality food, and warm hospitality in a beautifully curated setting.

“The event space will stretch across the entire ground floor and will be available for use by the wider business community, giving people an exciting new option for meetings, seminars and launches with state of the art presentation and comms equipment all installed. Our team are also busy working on the final touches for a podcast studio, which will be available for use by the end of the summer.

“We have partnered with a hospitality professional to run the coffee house and business lounge and having seen a sneak peek of the menus, we are already feeling hungry for more!”