Hollins Chambers, an iconic building in the heart of Manchester’s commercial district, has long been a symbol of the city’s rich architectural heritage. Built in 1925, this historical gem has stood the test of time, but it recently needed a transformation to meet the demands of the modern commercial market.
That’s where we came in. Our brief was clear: the client wanted to revive the existing office building into both CAT A and CAT B office spaces, with a striking reception area that would appeal to potential tenants. The challenge? Retaining the building’s historical essence while creating a space that feels fresh, premium, and highly functional in today’s competitive market.
Embracing History: A Nod to the Roaring Twenties
With Manchester’s commercial property scene becoming more dynamic, we knew that the redesign had to offer something truly unique. From the outset, we wanted to ensure that the building’s history remained a central feature of the new design. For the CAT B spaces, we took inspiration from the 1920s, drawing on the glamour and excitement of the Jazz Age, the Gatsby era, and all the opulence that came with it.
We developed a rich colour palette of greens, blues, and golds to evoke the elegance of the time, while carefully selected furniture and artwork played key roles in creating a sense of authenticity. Adding touches of bric-a-brac reminiscent of the building’s past gave the space a character that blends old-world charm with modern functionality.
A Striking New Identity
Along with refurbishing five floors of office space, we also supported a refresh of the building’s identity with new branding and a sleek website to match the updated interiors. These elements were designed to reflect the balance between heritage and modernity, ensuring the building appeals to a new generation of tenants while honouring its roots.
The updated reception area, with its bold, flamboyant furniture and luxurious finishes, creates an immediate impression of style and sophistication, offering tenants and visitors a welcoming space that speaks to the building’s iconic status.
