Newcastle Central Arcade

The Central Arcade is one of Newcastle’s most iconic landmarks, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Built in 1906, the arcade has stood the test of time and remains a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the history and architecture of the Central Arcade.

History

The Central Arcade was built in 1906, at the height of Newcastle’s industrial boom. It was designed by Oswald and Son, a prominent architectural firm of the time, and was commissioned by the city’s most successful businessman, Richard Grainger.

Grainger was a wealthy entrepreneur who was responsible for much of Newcastle’s urban development during the 19th century. He was known for his love of grand, sweeping designs and the Central Arcade was no exception.

The arcade was originally built as a shopping destination, with a variety of high-end retailers occupying the space. Over the years, the arcade has been home to everything from clothing stores to tea rooms, and it remains a popular destination for shoppers to this day.

Architecture

The Central Arcade’s architecture is a testament to the grandeur of the era in which it was built. The arcade is a stunning example of Edwardian Baroque architecture, which was popular during the early 20th century.

The arcade’s façade is made of beautiful cream-colored terracotta, which gives the building its distinctive appearance. The terracotta is decorated with intricate carvings and reliefs, depicting a variety of mythological creatures and scenes from everyday life.

One of the most striking features of the Central Arcade is its stunning glass roof. The roof is made up of a series of curved glass panels, which allow natural light to flood the space below. The glass panels are supported by a network of wrought iron arches, which add to the arcade’s grandeur.

The interior of the arcade is just as impressive as the exterior. The arcade is lined with a variety of high-end retailers, many of which have been in business for decades. The shops are housed in beautiful wooden cabinets, which add to the overall elegance of the space.

The arcade’s centerpiece is a stunning clock, which is located in the center of the space. The clock was designed by William Potts & Sons, a famous clockmaker of the time, and has been a fixture of the arcade since it was first built.

The Future of the Central Arcade

Despite its historical significance, the Central Arcade has faced its fair share of challenges over the years. In recent years, the arcade has struggled to keep up with changing consumer habits, and many of its retailers have closed their doors.

However, there is hope for the future of the Central Arcade. In 2018, the arcade was acquired by a property development firm, who have pledged to invest in the space and bring it back to its former glory.

The new owners of the arcade have already begun work on a number of improvements, including the installation of new lighting and the restoration of the arcade’s iconic clock. They have also announced plans to attract new retailers to the space and to create a more modern shopping experience for visitors.

The Central Arcade is one of Newcastle’s most treasured shopping areas, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Built in 1906, the arcade has stood the test of time and remains a popular destination for shoppers and history buffs alike.

The arcade’s Edwardian Baroque architecture is a testament to the grandeur of the era in which it was built, and its stunning glass roof and intricate carvings make it a true work of art.