Size
Duration
Services
ADT Workplace has successfully completed a comprehensive office refurbishment of the iconic Freetrade Exchange, a listed heritage property located in the vibrant heart of Manchester.
Originally a Victorian-era fabric warehouse, this historic building now stands as a testament to the blend of classic architecture and modern functionality. Situated at the junction of Peter Street, it seamlessly connects the historic civic quarter of St Peter’s Square with the contemporary business hub of Spinningfields.
Moreover, the refurbishment project transformed over 35,000 sq.ft across seven floors, delivering some of Manchester’s finest office spaces.
Design and Execution
In a competitive Manchester office market, the demand for workspaces that offer more than just a desk is paramount. Tenants seek environments that provide quality, comfort, cutting-edge technology, and welfare facilities that make commuting worthwhile for their teams.
Additionally, ADT Workplace, in collaboration with project management consultants Quartz and Paragon (Colliers), architects Michael Laird, and interior designers AXI, embraced this challenge. Together, they crafted a workspace that exceeds expectations, integrating modern amenities and sustainable practices while preserving the building’s historical essence.
Transformation
The office refurbishment resulted in the creation of a state-of-the-art workspace that includes a ground floor welcome area and impressive wellness amenities. The ground floor now boasts a dedicated reception area with a coffee bar and relaxation zones, featuring high- quality finishes, sophisticated furniture, stunning lighting, and greenery. Furthermore, this space sets the tone for a first-class experience for all building users.
The second floor has been transformed into a plug-and-play workspace solution. This fully furnished space is ready for immediate occupancy and includes:
- Open-plan desks
- Informal reception area
- Breakout spaces with a kitchen
- Private meeting rooms
- Focus pods
In addition, the design features a boutique-style ambiance with luxurious furniture, decorative elements, biophilic design, and a natural colour palette, all contributing to a sense of wellbeing.
Sustainable Practices
Sustainability was a core focus of the office renovation project. The design incorporated:
- Energy-efficient lighting
- Climate control systems
- Environmentally friendly materials
Moreover, biophilic design elements, such as extensive planting and natural materials, were integrated to enhance indoor air quality and occupants’ wellbeing. These practices ensure that Freetrade Exchange not only meets modern standards but also contributes positively to the environment.
The remaining floors have been carefully restored to merge contemporary office design with the building’s original Victorian features. As a result, these floors offer professional businesses modern and efficient workspaces with:
- Fully air-conditioned, large open-plan areas
- Exposed services for increased ceiling height
- Large windows providing ample natural light and impressive city views
Delivering Workplace Projects with Confidence
Promoting Wellbeing Beyond the Workspace
On the lower ground floor, occupants can enjoy an extensive wellness suite. This includes a fully equipped gym, yoga studio, sauna, showers, a drying/makeup room, an additional kitchen, and a relaxation area. ADT Workplace meticulously developed AXI’s design for this floor, ensuring high-quality execution and alignment with client expectations.
“
ADT Workplace has truly transformed Freetrade Exchange into a premier office space in Manchester. Their attention to detail, commitment to quality, and innovative design solutions have exceeded our expectations. Indeed, the blend of historical charm and modern amenities has created a unique and desirable workspace for the tenants.
Dan Gillespie, Board Director at Quartz
The office refurbishment of Freetrade Exchange by ADT Workplace exemplifies the successful fusion of historical preservation with modern functionality. By collaborating closely with renowned architects and designers, ADT Workplace delivered a high-quality, sustainable office environment that caters to the evolving needs of today’s workforce.
The project not only revitalises a historic property but also sets a new standard for office spaces in Manchester, offering tenants a compelling reason to choose Freetrade Exchange as their business home.
