BDP Manchester Studio, Ducie Street

A six-storey showcase of fresh thinking.

The site faces two quite different environments; we wanted our design to accommodate both in an organic way.

We designed a transparent north elevation to catch limited light and complement the canal basin while the street side displays a confident punctuated stainless-steel façade.

Our dramatic cantilevered glazed staircase highlights circulation of people between the six storeys, with our studios — the creative nerve-centre — crowning the top of the building. This is the first naturally ventilated office building in Manchester to achieve an Excelllent BREEAM rating.

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Brief

  • design a new northern HQ for 275 BDP employees
  • create space for open-plan studios, restaurant and large reception
  • ensure the building is sensitive to the context and microclimate

Results

  • inspirational working environment, with stunning views across the canal basin and plenty of natural light
  • greater productivity and teamwork in large dedicated studios
  • interaction between departments boosted by high connectivity between floors
  • 2009 RIBA Award, MIPIM Award (Green Building - Finalist) 2009, British Council for Offices Award (Regional Award) 2009

Facts

Location: Piccadilly Basin, Manchester, UK
Client: Town Centre Securities
Construction cost: £10m
Completed: 2008
Awards: 4

Integrated services

architecture, environmental engineering, structural engineering, acoustics, interior design, lighting

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