The recent expansion of Department Leeds Dock introduces a unique cinema experience, catering to creative businesses.
- Originally a waterside casino, Department Leeds Dock has been transformed into a thriving hub for creative and tech businesses since its launch last year.
- Sixty companies and 360 members now occupy this innovative workspace, which includes hot desks, premium suites, and social spaces.
- The latest expansion features a boutique cinema with a capacity of up to 60 people, offering flexible seating and advanced audio-visual systems.
- Amy Matthams highlights the cinema’s potential for diverse events, from presentations and launches to unique party venues.
Formerly a waterside casino, Department Leeds Dock has been meticulously redeveloped into a vibrant workspace for enterprises spanning creative, media, tech, and digital sectors. This transformation reflects a strategic move to foster a community-oriented work environment, integrating areas for collaboration and leisure.
The building, launched early last year, has successfully attracted a diverse array of businesses. Housing 60 companies and 360 members, it offers a variety of workspaces, including hot desks, permanent desks, and private studios. The setup is complemented by social areas, featuring a bar and kitchen, which host lifestyle events and encourage a collaborative atmosphere.
In its latest expansion, the venue has unveiled a boutique cinema alongside new office facilities. Located on Level 1 and the mezzanine, these spaces are mostly occupied, with Level 2 poised to open in the Autumn. This expansion introduces additional private offices, meeting rooms, a content creator’s suite, podcast capabilities, and social zones enhanced by a bar and private cinema.
The new cinema, accommodating 38 to 60 individuals, is designed with flexible seating—from plush sofas to traditional theatre arrangements—and is equipped with a contemporary surround sound system. Such features provide an exceptional backdrop for various activities, from corporate presentations and speaker events to brand launches and festive gatherings.
Amy Matthams, Department’s general manager, remarked on the cinema’s versatile appeal, noting its suitability for unique event settings. She emphasised the flexibility of the venue, offering the option to transition from cinema experiences to dining or recreational activities at nearby facilities, showcasing its all-encompassing event capabilities.
The expansion at Department Leeds Dock exemplifies a modern approach to workspace development, blending work and leisure in a creative environment.
