Plan in for Manchester ‘upside-down’ 18-storey tower

30/7/24

Developer Soller has submitted plans for a distinctive 18-storey tech office project in Manchester that incorporates several buildings at street level.

The main tower will be cantilevered to allow the floorplate to widen as the building rises in height.

Designs by architect Howells for the NXQ scheme retain and restore 19th-century buildings on the site while respecting the neighbouring grade II-listed Daily Express Building.

NXQ will be accessed via a new publicly accessible courtyard at the heart of the development.

An intelligent façade will use deep fins for solar shading and incorporate opening windows for mixed-mode ventilation, to provide fresh air whilst helping to cool the building naturally.

Howells director Adam Desborough said: "Our adaptive re-use of an existing block will deliver a new Tech Hub which pays homage to the exceptional Art Deco Express Building, alongside the careful and measured retention and restoration of historic buildings and facades along Lever Street."

"The cantilevered structure will be achieved using an efficient raking column, which will create an interesting dynamic with the historic buildings.

"It is a striking design which embraces the unique character of the area and will provide a distinctive silhouette which the city can be proud of."

Following approval, and once on site, the building is due to be completed by 2027/2028.

Source; Construction Enquirer