A Washington architect’s bookshop, cafe, and event space project, led by TV designer George Clarke, has won approval. Clarke, born in Washington, aims to convert a Grade II listed building on High Street West in Sunderland, located next to Sonny's and Pop Recs.
Sunderland City Council described the plan as one that would draw more people to the area, help create a high-quality physical environment, and contribute to the vibrancy and character of the Sunniside district.
The proposal notes the project would blend Clarke’s passions for books and restoration architecture, while giving him more opportunity to spend time in Sunderland. The upper floors of the building are proposed to become an apartment for Clarke and his family, with the possibility of marketing additional boutique short-stay accommodation.
If planning permission is granted, the project, titled Home of Books, is slated to open in 2026. The plan includes restoring the original shopfront, making alterations to openings, reinstating Georgian-style joinery, reworking the rear extension, installing new windows, and creating new internal staircases.
The council’s decision report states the development would significantly enhance the evolving cultural and creative neighborhood in Sunniside.
As part of the scheme, a small cafe and wine bar would accompany the bookshop, along with a new refuse and cycle storage area. A single four-bedroom apartment would occupy the building’s upper floors, described by Clarke as a calm, well-designed space that would serve as his Sunderland base while also hosting visiting writers, artists, and others contributing to the city’s creative life.
Clarke added: “Sunderland is 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, ideas, and the people who bring them to life.”
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