New era for marketing agency following building purchase
Hull marketing agency Sowden + Sowden has revealed plans to transform a historic East Yorkshire site into a vibrant creative hub to house its expanding team, sparking a fresh chapter in its 40-year history.
Located on the Weir in Hessle, five miles west of the centre of Hull, the development – formerly an 18th century carriage house and stable – will be revamped into the agency’s headquarters.
The updated 3,023 sq ft site will house two substantial open-plan office spaces, two further office spaces, a large meeting room, communal kitchen area, and an expansive courtyard for outdoor working and socialising.
The renovation project is already well underway, with plans for the team to move in during the first quarter of 2021, subject to Covid-19 regulations.
Polly Sowden, director, said: “We’re thrilled to have purchased this amazing development opportunity via PPH Commercial which is steeped in history and gives us the opportunity to live by our ethos, a business that’s built on a culture of creativity and doing things differently.
“I’m proud to build something from the bottom up and looking forward to creating a truly special space from which we continue our journey as an outstanding agency.
“By updating the building to play to our strengths, we’ll support our incredible team to continue delivering the very best results for all our clients, both on our doorstep and across the globe.”
The agency previously had offices at nearby Hesslewood Country Office Park.
The renovation is being managed by independent firm AEB Architecture and Design Ltd.
Paul Sowden, founder and managing director of the agency, said: “As soon I as I saw the building, it reminded me of a London mews from the 60s.
“The site was originally constructed in the 1860s, but we’re really looking forward to modernising it for the 21st century as a centre for innovative, world-class marketing. It’s going to be very exciting… so watch this space.”
The property was converted into a builders yard in 1975, with extensions and the first floor added in 1986.
