The architects leading the transformation of Leicester’s historic Pilot House site into a new creative hub will also be among its first tenants.
Local design firm rg+p, which developed the scheme, has signed the first lease at Canopy—a new 33,000 sq ft workspace for creative businesses on King Street.
Picture credit: Christopher Terry Photography
The £13.3 million redevelopment, led by Leicester City Council, is turning a cluster of council-owned former factories into flexible studios, co-working areas, meeting rooms, and a public hub with café, exhibition space, and a central courtyard.
rg+p’s design preserves heritage features like exposed brickwork and parquet flooring while introducing bold contemporary elements, including a new glazed roof and entrance.
“We’ve been involved with the site since winning the design competition in 2022,” said Rob Woolston, rg+p director. “With our current lease ending, we realised Canopy—something we helped create—was the perfect fit for our next chapter.”
rg+p will move its Leicester studio to Canopy, maintaining offices in London and Birmingham.
Sir Peter Soulsby, City Mayor, said: “This ambitious project will support jobs, boost the creative sector, and contribute to the regeneration of King Street and surrounding areas. rg+p’s decision to move in is a strong endorsement of the development.”
Picture credit: Christopher Terry Photography
Construction was carried out by Henry Brothers Construction. Managing Director Ian Taylor said: “We’re proud to help deliver a scheme that brings new life to the city centre.”
Canopy is set to open in autumn 2025. Nine of its 25 workspaces have already been let. It will be managed by the team behind LCB Depot, Phoenix Square, and Makers’ Yard.
The project is backed by £8.6 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund and is expected to support around 250 creative sector jobs.
For workspace enquiries, contact James Burkmar at Canopy@lcbdepot.co.uk.
