ADT Workplace recently partnered with flexible workspace provider, x+why, delivering Cat A and B services, alongside interior designers at John Robertsons Architects, to help create its first Manchester office following its expansion into the region. After success in London and Birmingham, the innovative B Corp chose an impressive 33,000 sq.ft space spanning three floors at 100 Embankment for its first location in the city. This striking glass tower set above Greengate Square at the end of Deansgate boasts stunning views over the River Irwell and Manchester Cathedral, and provides occupants with outstanding amenities and unrivalled connectivity.
The vision
x+why’s flexible workspaces support communities of impact-driven leaders, companies, and movements who believe that business should be a force for good. The team wanted to create a thriving community in Manchester for like-minded businesses of all sizes, which would offer inspiring workspace and first-class facilities. Providing occupants with a range of agile work settings was vital to the office design, as well as prioritising employee wellbeing, technology and social impact. The office design needed to be visually stunning and conducive to growth and success for its tenants. In line with its vision and purpose for good, all existing x+why spaces are designed, built and managed sustainability, so it was imperative that the Manchester office aligned with this.
The transformation
Visitors arrive into a stunning double height open plan welcome area with floor to ceiling glazing which floods the ground floor with natural light. This vibrant space offers various settings including sofas, booths and an open events space with bleacher style seating with views over the river.
A huge feature wall showcasing a large, bespoke mural created by local artist, Barney Ibbotson, grabs attention. Inspired by the building’s location, there are 100 stories and references to Manchester and the surrounding area woven into the inspiring and thought-provoking design. Exposed services, unique feature lighting, lush greenery and a coffee bar all help to create a boutique-style ambiance providing the perfect setting for people to relax and unwind.
The ground floor also includes an open plan serviced office space, which incorporates two meeting rooms and two quiet pods to provide occupiers with a space for dedicated work. A kitchen area facilitates easy access to refreshments, while bold prints add vibrance and wicker chairs provide a comfortable seating option, that blends style with ergonomic support. Occupiers of this space also have access to the mezzanine via a striking spiral staircase, where more desk space and an eight-person meeting room is situated. This mezzanine provides a sense of privacy, whilst maintaining a connection to the larger open plan office below.
The first floor is designed to provide an unforgettable experience, and perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the workspace. With carefully curated mood lighting, decorative wall art and quirky furnishings, the attention to detail leaves a lasting impression. A contemporary kitchen area on this floor goes above and beyond just the usual amenities. It boasts a tech-powered coffee machine, stocked fridges with organic beverages and snacks, and even draught beer. Decorated with hanging flowers, bar stools and a captivating neon pink sign – and located next to an open plan working area – this communal space surpasses expectations, providing an inviting environment for people to socialise.
Adjacent to this is the ‘Mission Room’, a spacious meeting and events area that can comfortably accommodate up to 40 people. This is thoughtfully designed with a moveable curtain for added privacy, and reconfigurable walls to enable the space to be easily split into two separate areas. Conveniently located next to the Mission Room are a range of meeting spaces varying in size and each with their own unique design. Equipped with large screens and state-of-the-art connectivity, these inspiring rooms ensure that meetings and presentations can be conducted seamlessly and efficiently.
An additional breakout space incorporating beautifully crafted wooden arches, an array of greenery, curved benches and comfortable seating, provides visitors with a relaxing and alternative workspace. The remainder of the space on the first floor and half of the second floor comprises serviced offices of varying sizes, all offering open plan desk space combined with private meeting space and a range of agile workplace settings, as well as their own kitchen areas. The walkways between offices display bold graphics and quotes taken from x+why’s recently published book Mission Lit. The lessons shared in the book are designed to serve as a toolkit for finding purpose and outshining competition, motivating the purpose-driven employees to achieve great things in the workspace.
100 Embankment also provides its tenants with a roof terrace with spectacular views overlooking the city. Fitted out with plants, trees and living walls offering an abundance of greenery, alongside relaxed outdoor seating and decorative lighting, the space offers a workplace haven above the busy city centre streets below.
In line with x+why’s belief that business should be a force for good, the space is designed as sustainably as possible, from the use of bespoke joinery made from reclaimed materials and ethically sourced furniture, to the use of 100% renewable energy sources and achieving 0% waste to landfill during the delivery process.
Commenting on the project Phil Nevin, Co-founder and COO at x+why said: “It was a pleasure to work with ADT Workplace, who took an ethical and sustainable approach to the entire project, aligning with our brand and the features of the building. x+why at 100 Embankment is all about supporting the Better Business movement in Salford in Manchester, and working with such a committed, local supplier was the perfect start to the journey.”