This three-storeys Soundhouse with a unique black boxed structure is where people from the University of Sheffield, with a big passion for music, get to play. The 450 sqm building – designed and Careyjones Architects and put up by Jefferson Sheared Architects – is a first for the U.K. for using black rubber to dress it up (almost) completely.

Why they used leather is obvious. To build a soundproof exterior. And they did it. The black building has become a landmark on the university campus, turning heads both for the design and the creative environment. Consider it the 21st century flagship for “music boxes”.

Apart from doing what it was designed for – music, it’s a mix between boring and pretty. Do you like it?