The project.
At 5 New York Street in Manchester, we worked alongside Bruntwood to deliver a CAT B fit out that reflects how modern workplaces need to perform. The brief was to create a high quality environment for a Financial Services occupier that supports both focused work and day to day collaboration.
The project involved the full fit out of two floors, transforming the space into a workplace that feels connected, practical and easy to use.
The Space
The layout brings together open plan office areas with a range of supporting spaces. These include meeting rooms, informal breakout areas and a central food and beverage hub that acts as a focal point across the floors.
Rather than separating these functions, the design allows them to flow naturally. This creates a working environment where people can move easily between tasks, whether that is quiet work, team meetings or more informal interaction.
Flexibility was an important part of the brief. Collaboration spaces have been designed to adapt over time, allowing the occupier to respond to changing working patterns and team needs.
Our Role
We provided Quantity Surveying and CDM Principal Designer services, supporting the project from design through to completion.
Our focus was on maintaining cost control and programme while supporting the design intent. Fit out projects often require quick decisions and close coordination, so working collaboratively with the wider team was key to keeping momentum and avoiding disruption.
From a CDM perspective, early involvement allowed us to identify and manage risks at the right stage. This helped ensure that health and safety was considered throughout the design and delivery process, not just on site.
The Outcome
The finished space is balanced and well considered. Each element supports the overall environment, creating a workplace that is both functional and comfortable to use.
There is a consistent quality across the scheme, alongside the flexibility needed for the occupier to evolve over time. The result is a space that works in practice, not just in design.
Working Together
This project reflects the value of a collaborative approach. By working closely with Bruntwood and the wider team, we were able to align cost, programme and design from the outset.
It is a good example of how clear thinking, good coordination and attention to detail can come together to deliver a successful workplace environment.
