Arcades are a key part of the historic urban language of Leeds. The new Victoria Gate is strategically located between the magnificent existing Victoria Quarter from 1900 and a new John Lewis department Store. The new building is a contemporary interpretation of Victorian arcades, a typology embedded in the city's rich architectural heritage. The exterior of the building evolves from the 19th and 20th century language of the surrounding Blomfield and Victorian brick and terracotta buildings, and consists of sculpturally pleated brick elevations, changing in rhythm and scale to respond to the context. Where shopping malls often produce a cacophony of visual noise, with all individual tenancies competing for attention, Victoria Gate provides a curated experience of unified shopfronts, pilasters, signage bands to convey a sense of calm and quality, and to create a destination with a clear visual identity that is clearly Leeds rather than anywhere. Shopping mall architectural elements are revisited so that floor, roof, shop front and lighting follow common geometrical themes to create a clear rhythm and texture. The rooflight transitions from flat to steeply pitched and funneled based on its context. Leeds has a beautiful roofscape which is rarely seen. The space above the arcade has been used to create rooftop restaurants and a large casino, to create a truly mixed use building alive during the day and at night.