Award winning Leeds mixed-use development Greenhouse, recognised as the most pioneering, low-carbon homes and offices in the UK, has bucked the current stagnant commercial property market with 70% of its offices now filled.

Sustainable developers Citu, officially launched Greenhouse (a part re-furb, part new-build of 1930s hostel Shaftesbury House), last year with 15,000 sqft of commercial space, and now have a booming Yorkshire business community onsite, spanning architects, designers and creative industries.

Citu believe their success with Greenhouse is a result of building a community that businesses can become a part of and the commercial property market across the UK will only improve when more developers and landlords recognise tenants are demanding, and have the right to, more.

As well as 60% cheaper energy bills, office tenants cite being part of a strong business community as a huge pull.

Sturgeon North Architects, who worked on the project during the construction phase, moved into Greenhouse, deciding there was no better way to show off their work to future clients. Director Matthew Sturgeon said: “Greenhouse has quickly become one of Leeds' signature buildings with a very strong image and we feel it reflects well on all businesses based here by being a part of it.

“We're in the ground floor offices and by being connected to the courtyard we feel part of the building's activities, our visiting clients always comment on what a buzzing atmosphere there is.

“All of us at Sturgeon have totally bought into the ethos of the building and are passionate about being part of the community spirit and look forward to it continuing to grow as more businesses join.”

Businesses and staff based at Greenhouse in Beeston can make full use of a range of facilities including:

- Next generation, fully integrated broadband at 100mb per second, the fastest in Leeds
- Use of the 2480sqft conferencing suite with a capacity for 120, with video and conference facilities for delegates to broadcast/receive conferences to other sites and 10ft projection screen and PA system.
- Pay as you go internet access for delegates
- Use of the free on-site gym and shower facilities
- A bicycle club means they can cycle into the city centre on their lunch hour
- An on-site deli that uses only locally sourced ingredients, including vegetables grown in the Greenhouse allotments
- Shared courtyard area

Social Media specialists V Social are the most recent company to make the move. Director Michael Ham said: “Greenhouse is ahead of its time and an iconic environment – we wanted to be part of it as soon as we saw it. It's a building of the future so it's great to be involved from day 1.

“It's the perfect environment for creative companies who enjoy being part of a community and the digital technology is second to none. This is the place for anyone in our industry to be in – we're just lucky it happens to be in Leeds!”

QAD Architects decided to move into Greenhouse after being impressed by what they saw at the official launch in October, which was attended by local MP and DEFRA Secretary Hilary Benn.

Director Ian Bryant said: “We'd been looking to relocate for some time and saw a lot of non-descript offices in our search with no soul to them. Greenhouse is an iconic building with strong architectural quality which appealed to us and sold it straight away. We respect the project, its ethos and the architectural thought that went into the design.

“The green credentials buy into our own CSR and brand values and the community spirit that exists already makes it a pleasant place to work. Another bonus it that it's great for getting clients to come out and see us – they've heard the hype about the building and want to see it.”

Citu are committed to creating sustainable buildings and this has been recognised across the country, winning them 12 awards since 2009, with more outstanding for 2011.

Energy bills are reduced by 60% at Greenhouse and businesses can follow their carbon footprint for themselves via a bespoke system monitoring energy usage of their office. They can view live information through their IPTV, demonstrating in KWh and in £ and pence, the actual amount of energy, water, and heat consumption being used, making it a tangible resource. It allows companies to see directly how they can keep costs down.

Citu Director Chris Thompson said: “The business world is evolving more quickly than ever, in all industries, and landlords have to acknowledge the need to adapt and be flexible to suit the changing way businesses work. It appears the commercial property industry needs to play catch up to re-build and grow again.

“Offering tenants the opportunity to be part of a community at their work place makes happier staff, resulting in more successful business and long-term leases – something many developers and landlords are failing to secure.

“Sustainability is the blood that runs through Greenhouse, it's what sets it apart and businesses based there appreciate the building lives and breathes sustainability. It's that which has ensured the commercial element has been, and continues to be, a success.”

More information about the facilities can be found at www.greenhouseleeds.net or contact fraser@citu.co.uk for all other enquiries.

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