Monocle, Hull’s newest landmark development, has officially opened, welcoming its first tenants and members of the public into a contemporary workspace and hospitality hub in the heart of the city.
The development is already home to a number of forward-thinking businesses, and includes Daze, its ground-floor coffee house, which is open to the public.
A Transformation Rooted in Heritage
The building has undergone a complete transformation, from its original mirrored façade to a new clear-glass front symbolising openness and connection. Its distinctive curved shape inspired the name Monocle, a nod to both its circular form and its newfound transparency.
Originally called Europa House, the property celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. The redesign pays homage to that heritage, with warm, 1970s-inspired interiors and colour palettes delivered alongside a thoroughly modern experience.
Some of the original windows have been recycled as mirrors in the members’ gym, and reclaimed raised access floor panels feature elsewhere in the building. Solar panels cover the roof, and charging points for e-bikes and scooters have been installed on site.
Workspace Built for Modern Business
Located next to Paragon Interchange, Monocle offers up to 60,000 sq ft of high-specification workspace, along with a business lounge with co-working spaces, a podcast studio, a private gym, event space and a city garden.
Nearly all the first-floor studios are now occupied, with phase two of the 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: The Social Heart of Monocle
Daze offers specialty coffee, matcha and Japanese teas, lager, signature cocktails and healthy food options. It is run by hospitality expert Lukas Brdlik, formerly of Prague’s Anonymous Bar.
Lukas said: “Daze is all about offering a unique experience.
“Customers want more than just great coffee — although we have plenty of that too — they want atmosphere and connection.
“The response so far has been amazing, and we’re just getting started.”
Meet The Tenants
Monocle is already home to the following tenants:
- Adecco — a global workforce solutions business connecting candidates with rewarding roles across a range of sectors, including permanent, temporary, managed and outsourced recruitment.
- Caval — a construction recruitment business with a 17-year track record of sourcing talent across all construction sectors.
- Ever After Holidays — a specialist tour operator for Disney destinations and Universal parks worldwide, offering tailor-made holidays.
- Lyon PR — a dedicated PR, comms and media liaison company supporting private and public sector organisations across Hull, East Yorkshire and the Humber.
What’s Next
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.
