Lancaster House, Manchester

Lancaster House, located on Whitworth Street in Manchester, is a historic building originally constructed as a packing and shipping warehouse between 1905 and 1910. It was built for Lloyd's Packing Warehouses Limited, which had become the leading commercial packing firm in Manchester following a series of mergers. Designed by Harry S. Fairhurst, a prominent architect known for his expertise in warehouse design, Lancaster House exemplifies the Edwardian Baroque style. The structure features a steel frame, with the lower portions clad in granite and the upper portions in Accrington red brick and orange terracotta, while the rear is made of plain red brick.

As of October 2, 1974, Lancaster House is recognized as a Grade II* listed building, highlighting its architectural and historical significance. Fairhurst's design is noted for its high-quality, fireproof specifications. Lancaster House is not just architecturally tied to its era but also physically connected to its neighboring building, India House, through an ornate, Art Nouveau wrought iron gate featuring a pendant lamp.

The building has undergone significant transformations over the years; it has been converted into residential flats and is now split into two sections. These are located on Whitworth Street and Princess Street, respectively. The conversion includes facilities such as O'Sheas Irish Bar, which is accessible via the corner entrance.

Additionally, Lancaster House is part of a broader conservation area established by Manchester City Council in September 1974 and expanded in June 1985. This area was designated to preserve the historical context of Manchester's textile industry, reflecting the city's rich industrial past. The conservation area includes significant streets and landmarks, underscoring the ongoing effort to maintain the architectural and historical fabric of Manchester city center.