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.<\/p>\n
The main tower will be cantilevered to allow the floorplate to widen as the building rises in height.<\/p>\n
NXQ will be accessed via a new publicly accessible courtyard at the heart of the development.<\/p>\n
![\"-\"](\"https:\/\/www.constructionenquirer.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/NXQ-Soller-Group-p-Soller-Group.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nNXQ scheme for the corner of Lever Street and Great Ancoats Street<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
An intelligent fa\u00e7ade 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.<\/p>\n
Nick Treadaway, founding partner and chief executive of Soller Group, said: \u201cWe are delighted with the decision of Manchester City Council to grant planning consent for our 125,000 sq ft office scheme in the Northern Quarter.<\/p>\n
\u201cFive years in the making, nine buildings bought, six pre-applications\u2026\u2026 thanks to all those involved.\u201d<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nThe professional team includes: project manager, Turner and Townsend; cost consultant, AtkinsR\u00e9alis; structural and facade Engineer, AKT II and MEP engineer, Atelier Ten.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Howells director Adam Desborough said: \u201cOur 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\u00a0<\/span>historic buildings and facades along Lever Street.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe cantilevered structure will be achieved using an efficient raking column, which will create an interesting dynamic with the historic buildings.<\/p>\n \u201cIt 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.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n