1892 – Post Office, Leeds, Yorkshire

Extended in 1912 and 1925, and currently a mix of commercial and residential usage.

“The new General Post-office for Leeds is at length all but complete. Its erection has been a protracted work, having been begun in February, 1892. Government contracts are seldom hurried. One of the canons of the Board of Works seems to demand that every- thing under its control shall be done with deliberation and minute supervision, so that good work, strictly in accordance with specifications, may be secured. Such has been the procedure in this instance, and so far as the durable character of the structure is concerned, no fault is at least discernible. The new Post-office overlooking City-square is a stately stone pile, severely plain externally, excepting in front, and here, too, the architect has evidently thought it desirable not to put surrounding buildings to the blush by anything like a lavish adornment. And yet the facade has attractive features, chaste, and in harmony with the general design. The most conspicuous are the two public entrances, surmounted by classic female figures. Then there are the large bay windows which also relieve the plainness; whilst the row of female figures in the middle of the third story lend dignity and beauty. There is one blot, and that is the clock-tower in the centre. This is out of harmony with the general scheme, and of insignificant proportions. ”
Leeds Mercury, 10 January 1896