Corn Exchange, Leeds, West Yorkshire
The Corn Exchange was built between 1861-3 to the designs of Cuthbert Brodrick for the viewing and trading of corn kernels. It cost £360,000 to build. The plan and domed roof derive from an awkwardly shaped site and the need to admit the maximum amount of natural, undazzling, shadowless north light throughout the year to facilitate the viewing of the minute kernels. The roof is made of timber, iron and a combination of opaque and clear glass. The glass has been replaced with polycarbonate panels. The exchange was converted into shops and a restaurant after a period of disuse circa 1988. The interior space is completely open with a perimeter mezzanine which once led on to offices, now shop units. The building is stocky and its outward appearance is one of indestructibility.
