One of the most important historic buildings in Newcastle is getting a modern makeover through significant investment from new owners.
Built in 1670, Alderman Fenwick’s House at 98 Pilgrim Street is one of the oldest in Newcastle and was restored by the Tyne and Wear Building Preservation Trust, which owned it for 20 years prior to the sale.
The prominent 17th century Grade I listed property was originally built as a merchant’s house and later took its name from Alderman Fenwick, who was Mayor of Newcastle in 1720.
Now the house, recognised as one of the most important town houses of its kind in the North, been given an array of 21st century features, helping it attract new occupiers, after being snapped up by business space specialist Central Space last December.
The building is its first city centre acquisition, and will also become its new base, with the growing business relocating its team from Westerhope.
Central Space has already set about upgrades including ultra-fast broadband for all occupiers, contemporary breakout space and meeting rooms. A phased refurbishment of the offices and communal areas to provide new lighting, flooring and decor, is also under way.
Two of the newly renovated suites have been snapped up by mortgage broker Castle Keep Financial Solutions and recruitment firm Jeva Executive Research since Central Space took over the building.
Described by Newcastle’s BID company NE1 as “one of the most important mercantile town houses in any city in the north of England”, the building has been a private residence, and also operated as a coaching inn where writer Charles Dickens once stayed.
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Boasting a raft of period features including a grand entrance hall and impressive rooftop cupola, Central Space is keen to maintain the building’s character.
As well as quirky office space, it offers a striking city location for corporate events, conferences and networking in the Great Room, which is available to hire subject to Covid restrictions, with reduced rates for existing clients that may be based out of town.
Suites range from 236 sqft to 920 sqft, and full floors of 2,200 sqft are also available, along with virtual tenancies and flexible, cost-effective support services that cater for businesses of all types and sizes.
Marc Dixon, managing director of Central Space said: “The purchase was the culmination of a hugely successful 12-month period for us, in which we saw strong demand across the portfolio and welcomed our new property manager Michael Guthrie, and business administrator Sarah Baker to the team.
“With activity remaining strong despite a challenging trading environment, and our plans for the building taking shape amid the exciting redevelopment of the east Pilgrim Street area, we look forward to expanding our team and business further in the coming months.”
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Central Space also aims to create room for further tenants by converting the property’s north and south tunnels, which open directly onto Pilgrim Street.
Anthony Dixon, director at Central Space added: “We aim to add value by providing a range of efficient solutions that are tailored to the needs of each client. We can offer as much, or as little support as required.”