ADT Workplace has completed an office refurbishment for Capita, the largest business process outsourcing and professional services company in the UK. Located in Manchester’s historic Tootal Buildings, the 65,000 sq.ft workspace was developed to address a consolidation need and create a Northern hub for Capita businesses.

Previously known as Churchgate and Lee House, the interlinked Tootal Buildings are Grade II listed and have both undergone an impressive refurbishment over recent years thanks to investment from Helical Plc. When looking to create its central hub, Capita, already a tenant in Churchgate (now named Broadhusrt), opted to occupy space across Lee House and Broadhurst rather than relocate. The buildings boast an enviable location, which provides unrivalled access to local transport links as well as Manchester’s many bars, safes and shops.

During ADT Workplace’s work on the CAT A refurbishment programme of the Tootal Buildings, Capita selected the team to undertake the CAT A, B & C refurbishment of its new office, benefiting from both time and cost savings. Working closely with Atelier Heritage to combine its CAT A designs for the rest of the building, ADT Workplace acted as designer and contractor for Capita, fully exposing original architecture within the space and installing a new state-of-the-art mechanical and lighting system. All this was done with careful consideration of the listed building constraints, securing additional consent for any works which required changes to the original listed fabric of the property.

Due to the fast track nature of the project, the team had to work dynamically to ensure the project was delivered within the timeframes required, including making amendments to the colour scheme and signage quickly and efficiently to accommodate a brand refresh.

The aim was to create a professional workplace which is reflective of Capita’s brand and values, and provides a relaxed and welcoming environment. The new space includes high specification contemporary office space, which maximises the large floorplates to offer predominantly open plan, agile workspace with areas for collaboration and informal meetings. By breaking through structural walls between the two buildings, ADT Workplace combined floors of both Lee House and Broadhurst to create an impressive new reception area which includes a large social space and meeting village with 24 meeting rooms of various sizes, as well as a café.

Commenting on the project, Mary Collins, head of projects at Capita, said: “It was clear ADT Workplace had the skills and experience required to deliver the office we needed while working within the constraints of refurbing a listed property. The creative team presented a refreshing design which captured the brief and the vision we had for the space perfectly, which the delivery team then executed on time and on budget – despite the implications of lockdown – what more could we ask for! Our colleagues working in Manchester are delighted with their new workplace and I would have no hesitation in recommending ADT Workplace.”