George Clarke’s amazing Sunniside space
The TV architect has applied to convert 176 Hush Street West into Home of Books, a cultural bookshop, café, and event space, with an apartment on the upper floors.
Clarke is hoping to deliver conservation-led alterations and restorations to the grade two-listed building, and is aiming to open in 2026, the National Year of Reading.
176 High Street, built in the late 18th century, was last used as office accommodation.
Historically, it has accommodated a range of retail and commercial uses over the 20th century following its earlier conversion from residential to shop premises in the 19th century.
The apartment will be themed around industries that built Sunderland, such as ship-building, coal-mining, and stained glass work.
It will be used by the Washington native when he is in town, and otherwise will be available for short lets.
In a foreword submitted as part of a formal planning application, George says: “This project means a lot to me, both as an architect and as someone shaped by Sunderland.
“176 High Street West is a beautiful old building with a long history, and I feel really lucky to be part of its next chapter. The aim is simple: to bring it back into use in a way that respects its heritage but also gives it a fresh role in the life of the city…
“The whole project is being shaped with care. We’re working with the building, not against it, keeping what’s special, repairing what’s damaged, and making thoughtful changes where they’re needed.
“Sunderland’s changing in brilliant ways, and I hope Home of Books can play a part in that, rooted in the city’s past, but open to new stories, new ideas, and the people who bring them to life.”
Cllr Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for housing, regeneration and business, said: “It’s incredible to welcome George, who is one of the best-loved sons of the city, to Sunniside, and to see his plans – which have been under development for several months – come into the spotlight.
“Sunderland city centre is transforming and there is a growing sense that this is our time.
“It really does feel like the ambition we have shown for Sunderland is bearing fruit and plans like this – one of the most respected and admired voices in the built environment coming home to invest in the city – shows that we’re getting it right.
“We’ve seen Si King invest in Sunderland, bringing a fantastic hospitality business to Sheepfolds Stables and now another famous face is doing the same. It’s fantastic.”
Sharon Appleby, chief executive of Sunderland Business Improvement District, said: “We’re seeing regeneration in our city centre on a scale unmatched for decades, and that is capturing the interest of more and more investors who can see the potential of the place and are willing to put their money and belief into the area.
“The momentum is building in Sunderland, the impact of which is that that thousands more people will be living working and spending time here, fuelling our economy and creating more jobs and opportunities for residents.”
I have a similar property in Hull any chance George’s team can do something similar for us
By ken brady