saint james cross

We were commissioned by a local developer to design a new multi-functional tower in the heart of Newcastle on St James’ Boulevard, directly opposite the Helix site.

The site is adjacent to the residential apartments in the former Robert Sinclair buildings to the east and south as well as the grade I listed Tyne Theatre & Opera House to the east along Westgate Road and Dance City fronting the boulevard.

Lying within the Central Conservation Area, the site is within close proximity to a number of designated heritage assets including grade II listed Georgian terraces fronting Westgate Road and the town wall defences (scheduled monument) to the north east.

Our vision for a second tower on this key corner of Westgate Road reinforces the western gateway into the city, complementing Hadrian’s Tower opposite.

The proposed tower is stacked into three key zones; food & beverage, 1000 sqm Grade A office space and 150 bed 5 star hotel.

Creating an active street frontage was a key objective. This was achieved by combining a ground floor restaurant with entrance lobbies to both the office space and hotel.

The hotel has a double height sky lobby on the sixth floor which retains and celebrates the Robert Sinclair iconic signage which Newcastle City Councils planners wanted to restore.

Above the fourteen floors of hotel bedroom accommodation there is penthouse level pool and gym and private spaces available for conference and dining.

The double height glazing and roof top terrace provide expansive views across the city.

Mindful of sustainability issues, the building includes a 500 sqm south facing vertical solar farm.