The proposed development is for the refurbishment of an existing 1960’s concrete frame office building (on the perimeter of the George Street Conservation Area in Manchester city centre) into a ‘jewel’ within the Charlotte Street environment. It is conceived as a delicate glass structure that is elevated by a solid stone base constructed of dark stone, which evokes a reference to the surrounding stone buildings, whilst providing a contrast with the delicate ‘jewel’ above. The glass box is to be perceived as an interactive/changing façade, with its full height internal timber louvres that can be adjusted and controlled by the occupants of the building to control any glare that passes through the high performance glass façade.
