The renovation programme of Manchester’s 435,000 sq ft Exchange Quay office development continues with in excess of £200K being invested in the reception refurbishment of Building 1. Following the successful transformation of the reception areas in both Buildings 8 and 5, the team at Exchange Quay have re-appointed leading architecture and design studio Jasper Sanders + Partners to develop the entrance, first floor mezzanine and lift lobbies at Building 1.
Till Asset Management, acting on behalf of Exchange Quay has announced works have commenced on the entrance of Building 1 with North West contractor Aztec. This forms part of the scheme’s continued commitment to enhancing its occupier experience with completion earmarked for Spring 2022. The investment into upgrading the reception areas across multiple buildings totals some half a million pounds.
Jasper Sanders + Partners’ scheme design for Building 1 offers a refreshing aesthetic and enhances each of the spaces, combining a sense of place with timeless design. It is intentionally minimalist to accommodate the corporate occupier-base. The reception is a destination and place to meet, offering a great frontage onto the office campus with the overall intention to heighten the occupier experience at their first point of entry.
The team at Jasper Sanders + Partners focussed on a minimal approach with consideration into the choices and sources of materials, both from an aesthetic and sustainability standpoint. The modest timber palette inspired by the maritime theme of the Exchange Quay site with its close proximity to the Manchester canal system, largely features to reception and internal entrance elevations.
The articulated American architecture of Exchange Quay heavily influenced the two previous schemes, with Building 1 offering a warm, welcoming and tactile interior in stark contrast to the highly glossed, cooler hued façade.
Jasper Sanders, Design Director commented: “This was all about retaining as many components as possible within the existing scheme, to refresh and update the arrival experience, using the minimal number of materials for maximum effect.”
Exchange Quay, comprising 435,000 sq ft, is one of the largest office developments in the North West with more than 4,000 workers. The campus, which has its own Metrolink tram stop, is located approximately 1.5 miles to the southwest of Manchester City Centre and is strategically located just off Trafford Road which links Salford Quays to both Manchester City Centre and the regional motorway network.
Liam MacCarthy, Director at Till Asset Management, said; “We are delighted to commence work on the reception revamp of Building 1. Following the success and response to the scheme designs of both Buildings 8 and 5 we are pleased to be working with the leading design team again to progress our refurbishment programme to deliver another impressive entrance for occupiers and visitors alike.”
