Over the last 8 months, we’ve collaborated with local architect partners to identify the many types of buildings found in Leeds: from the rows of Victorian red brick terraces found in Hyde Park and Harehills, to the mazes of beautiful glass-roofed shopping arcades in the city-centre, to the iconic buildings truly unique to Leeds, such as Kirkstall Abbey, Broadcasting Tower and Candle House.
From the model packs designed by architects we are constructing individual houses and buildings that contribute to a diorama of Leeds.
The final model will be exhibited as part of a one-of-a-kind, interactive installation on 28 & 29 November 2026 at Leeds City Museum!
Since late May 2026, we’ve hosted 16 workshops in community centres and libraries across Leeds, with more scheduled until the end of September.
To achieve our target of 2000 buildings, we’re launching a “Super Builder Challenge”, and we’d love you to take part!
The challenge invites Leeds residents who enjoy crafting to build as many paper models as they can before mid November 2026.
How to get involved
Compass Live Art will arrange postage of the A4 paper model packs, along with any specialist craft materials you may need (fast-drying glue, cutting board, etc) to your home address. Alternatively we can arrange a collection point at a local Leeds library. Please note that material quantities are limited, but we will do what we can to provide each person with anything they don’t already have at home.
You may wish to share the model packs and craft materials with friends, family or neighbours, so they can have a go at building a miniature model of their own house too!
If the challenge sounds like something you’d love to take part in, please get in touch so we can arrange postage of the materials to your home address. We will also share a list of local libraries and community centres where you can drop off your completed paper models.
Contact us at
Email: producing@compassliveart.org.uk
Instagram: @compassfestlds
Happy building!
