The stunning Victorian County Arcade in Leeds was incorporated in the 1990s into a bigger shopping centre, including the neighbouring Cross Arcade and Queen Victoria Street, which was roofed over with glass. The original arcades were designed by a theatre architect, Frank Matcham and are suitably dramatic, featuring lots of Burmantofts faience (glazed tiles), mosaics, marble and gilding. Now dubbed 'The Knightsbridge of the North', retailers to be found there include Harvey Nichols department store and Vivienne Westwood.
It all links up at the back with the newer Victoria Gate (see yesterday) and at the front opens onto the pedestrianised Briggate. I rather liked the effect of the banners (below) strung across Briggate, shimmering in the sunshine.
More like an opera set than a shopping centre.
ReplyDeleteI love the Victorian decorations in that mall...I doubt that I'd do shopping, just stand around with my mouth agape!
ReplyDeleteThat is a fabulous arcade!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful architecture!
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness! That is gorgeous!
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