ADT Workplace has played its part in the extensive transformation of existing stock at One Piccadilly Gardens into Grade A office space in the heart of Manchester city centre.

Boasting a prime location surrounded by Manchester’s best transport links, shops and amenities, One Piccadilly Gardens comprises 187,000 sq.ft of office, retail and leisure space and floorplates of up to 26,680 sq.ft. It is a recognisable landmark building providing the ideal office location for modern businesses looking to attract and retain the region’s best talent.

Earlier this year, we completed works on a new reception area and common parts space, and are soon to handover on the CAT A fit-out of the 3rd and 4th floors.

The vision

Competition between office buildings in Manchester is high, with an abundance of first class workspace available, all offering the very best in quality, modern technology and shared facilities. In addition, competition to attract and retain the very best talent is increasingly tough, with people expecting more from their workplace than ever before. Because if this, tenants have not only come to expect a higher quality of fit-out, but also better amenities when deciding on a building.

One Piccadilly Gardens needed a refresh in order live up to those expectations and provide the landlord, Legal & General, with office space which would be attractive and easily rentable to prospective tenants.

The transformation

Along with our client partners, including project manager, Paragon, and interior designer, Space Invader, we set out to exceed these expectations, combining considered, contemporary design with stylish and striking new features.

We transformed a previously unused space into a stunning double height garden atrium just off reception, which links to the first floor. With biophillic design prevalent, combined with dark wooden features and warm lighting, as well as an abundance of natural light, this unique space provides the perfect area for tenants to host an event, informal meetings or just taking time out away from work.

The refurbishment also included the creation of a striking new reception. Dramatic and bold yet chic in appearance, the modern design is timeless and welcoming, with planting throughout adding to the building’s focus on wellbeing.

Other newly refurbished common areas include secure basement parking as well as a cycle hub to encourage tenants to keep active and cycle to work. New shower facilities also provide occupiers with a comfortable place to refresh while at work.

We also delivered the CAT A works for the 3rd and 4th floors, which both boast large, efficient open plan floorplates, and excellent natural light with unrestricted views over the city. The building has also achieved BREEAM Very Good rating, providing further efficiencies for tenants.

Commenting on the project, Rob Codling, Senior Fund Manager, LGIM Real Assets, said: “LGIM is committed to providing a high-level service and superior occupier experience across all of its office buildings. We have made a significant investment in One Piccadilly Gardens (OPG), transforming the building’s reception area and creating an atrium pavilion break out space for building guest and occupier collaboration.

“OPG now has the best shower and bike facilities in the Manchester market, and the 3rd and part 4th floors have been refurbished to best in class Cat A design. The physical improvements to the property will assist in our continued drive to improve our occupiers’ experience and LGIM’s goal to be the landlord of choice. All the works undertaken have the highest ESG credentials, ensuring the building remains fit for the future.”