A Legacy Reborn in the Heart of Exeter

Paternoster House has long been a landmark in Exeter, a building with deep historical roots and a story that has shaped the city’s streetscape. Originally built in the 1800s as the city’s first department store, this striking Victorian structure was a hub of commerce and community for decades. Now, after years of standing empty and in need of care, Paternoster House has been reimagined by NooKo into a thriving mixed-use development, blending heritage with modern living.

The Rise and Fall of a Retail Icon

For generations, Paternoster House was a key shopping destination, home to a family-run business that was ahead of its time. The building was renowned for its pioneering Paternoster lift—one of the earliest continuously moving elevators in the country—symbolizing its innovation and status. It survived WWII bombings, witnessed Exeter’s post-war redevelopment, and remained a familiar fixture in the city’s retail scene.

But as shopping habits changed and businesses moved to larger commercial hubs, Paternoster House fell into disuse. For seven years, it stood largely empty, its grand façade hiding the deterioration inside. Water damage, structural instability, and general neglect left it in dire need of restoration, but the bones of a great building remained.

The NooKo Vision: Blending Heritage with Contemporary Living

When NooKo acquired the site in 2023, the goal was clear: to breathe life back into this historic space while preserving the character that made it special. The vision for Paternoster House was not just about renovation—it was about reinvention.

The development now features:

• 29 modern apartments that embrace the building’s history while offering contemporary comforts
• A communal rooftop terrace with stunning panoramic views over Exeter
• Four commercial units designed to bring vibrancy back to North Street
• A co-working space and gym to provide a dynamic, flexible environment for residents
• A dedicated storage facility within the basement, maximising space and function

The Challenges of Restoration

Restoring Paternoster House was no simple task. Years of neglect meant significant structural work was required to stabilize the building. A crucial supporting wall that held up 70% of the floors and ceilings had to be carefully removed and replaced, requiring an extensive temporary support system of over 400 acrow props.

The historic exterior also needed meticulous attention. The original brickwork, stone carvings, and architectural details had suffered damage over the years, requiring careful restoration by skilled craftspeople to bring them back to their former glory. Inside, the balance between preserving heritage and adapting for modern living was key. Elements like exposed beams and period-style windows have been retained, adding character to the contemporary interiors.

A Sustainable Future for Paternoster House

Sustainability has been at the core of NooKo’s approach. Paternoster House now exceeds environmental standards with a 35 kWp solar system, ensuring reduced energy consumption. The development is completely gas-free, promoting a cleaner, greener lifestyle, and all tenants are contracted with renewable energy providers.

Material reuse has also been prioritized. Original elements like wood, stone, and metalwork have been carefully reclaimed and repurposed throughout the building. By integrating sustainable construction techniques and energy-efficient designs, Paternoster House is not just a restoration project—it’s a model for responsible urban regeneration.

Returning Paternoster House to Exeter

Now, as the scaffolding has come down, Exeter can once again admire Paternoster House in all its restored beauty. This once-forgotten landmark is returning to its rightful place as a centrepiece of city life, providing high-quality homes, commercial spaces, and a new lease of life to North Street.

More than a development, Paternoster House represents a commitment to Exeter’s heritage and its future—a place where history and modernity come together in perfect balance.

With new residents soon to move in and businesses preparing to open their doors, Paternoster House is not just a story of transformation—it’s a new beginning.