Cartwright
Pickard

Island, a state-of-the-art Grade A office development in central Manchester, represents a landmark achievement in sustainable and people-centric design, providing a hospitable amenity-led workspace environment designed to the latest UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard. The project currently achieves a 5-star 'Design Reviewed’ NABERS rating, meets the WELL Gold Standard and is benchmarked against the LETI and RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge initiatives.

Originally owned by the Greater Manchester Pension Fund, the project was delivered through a joint-venture partnership with HBD and designed by Cartwright Pickard. Island now stands as the future North West HQ for Virgin Media O2 and serves as a symbol of Manchester’s staunch commitment to environmental and social innovation in workplace design. 

"Having the opportunity to deliver our first Net Zero Carbon building is a major deal for us and something we're very proud to be doing. We have the potential to push the boundaries of what's possible here and believe this is an important step towards a Net Zero Carbon future for the City."

Adam Brady
Executive Director, HBD

Designing for Wellbeing and Sustainability in the Workplace

Island’s design philosophy was rooted in creating one of the most sustainable workplaces in the North West, achieved through a holistic approach. From the outset, the project prioritised strategies that addressed both environmental performance and tenant well-being with integrated building strategies playing a key role in achieving these goals.

Materials and construction methods were carefully selected to align with Island’s sustainability ambitions. The external palette features handmade Natural Orange bricks moulded and fired by Furness Brick & Tile Company in the Lake District, reflecting Manchester’s Victorian heritage while embracing sustainability. 

Durable bronze anodic PPC aluminium accents the façade, contributing to reduced whole-life costs and adding a contemporary touch. The Flemish bond brickwork pattern with sawtooth detailing and dark mortar ties the building to its historical context while providing a modern aesthetic.

Leveraging the Power of Offsite Manufacturing

A key element of Island’s sustainability and efficiency strategy was the integration of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and offsite manufacturing techniques.

Collaborating with Techrete, the design team developed a system of precast panels that include windows pre-installed, streamlining on-site construction and improving consistency. Sawtooth brickwork at window heads balanced aesthetic ambition with material efficiency, achieving an optimal solution in weight, depth, and pattern. A visual mock-up of the panels was created on-site, ensuring quality and material alignment with the conservation area’s character.

By leveraging prefabrication, the project was able to enhance quality control, reduce on-site waste, and significantly cut construction time. This approach not only streamlined on-site assembly but also minimised disruption within the conservation area, aligning with Island’s commitment to sustainability and responsible construction practices.

Designing in a Conservation Area

Situated within a central Manchester conservation area and adjacent to another, Island’s design required a careful and collaborative approach, including close liaison with Historic England.

The building’s design thoughtfully integrates contemporary elements with motifs inspired by the surrounding St Ann’s Conservation Area and the Arts & Crafts Movement, resulting in a development that honours its historic context. Echoing the philosophies of William Morris, a key figure in the Arts & Crafts Movement, Island embraces craftsmanship, material honesty, and a seamless dialogue between function and beauty.

This influence is reflected in the meticulous detailing of the façade, the celebration of natural materials, and the commitment to quality that ensures a lasting legacy.

Responding to the Evolving Workplace

With hybrid working becoming the norm, Island offers a workspace that blends the flexibility of home and third spaces like coffee shops and gyms with the amenities and collaboration opportunities of an office.

Hospitality-inspired features include an integrated food and beverage offering, regular events to foster community and collaboration, and seamless transitions between spaces for a warm and welcoming environment.

Smart Systems for a Sustainable Workplace

A smart Building Management System (BMS) underpins Island’s operations, enabling real-time optimisation of air quality and sustainable building management.

Complementing the BMS is a hybrid, mixed-mode ventilation system that promotes natural airflow with a traffic light alert system, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. Advanced environmental controls and resilient connectivity further enhance the workplace experience while minimising the environmental footprint.

Constructing Excellence at Record Pace

The construction phase of Island progressed rapidly, with practical completion achieved in under two years. Highlights include the installation of pre-cast panels and curved glass façades, which open up the building to John Dalton Street and the pedestrianised Ridgefield, activating the streetscape.

The building is targeting top sustainability certifications, including BREEAM Excellent, EPC A, and a 5.5* NABERS rating, backed by a 5* NABERS Design for Performance Agreement. It has also achieved a WELL Gold score, demonstrating Island’s commitment to occupant health and well-being.

Manchester’s Workplace of Tomorrow

Island is a shining example of a forward-thinking office development that balances sustainability, heritage, and functionality. From its innovative design and construction process to its people-centric focus, Island sets a new standard for Grade A office space in Manchester.

With Virgin Media O2 as its flagship tenant, the building is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of work in the city while contributing to Manchester’s Net Zero Carbon ambitions.

The next steps for Island include the completion of the interior fit-out, which is set to be finalised by Spring 2025. 

Images supplied by Bowmer + Kirkland.

"This significant investment demonstrates our commitment to retaining a sizeable presence in Manchester, with a flagship new office that places us in the heart of the city’s thriving technology hub."

Patricia Cobian
Chief Financial Officer, Virgin Media O2