Maximising the views of the Manchester City Centre skyline was central to our brief, which required the provision of a rooftop extension with additional floors of accommodation to provide conference and event space, as well as a spa and plunge pool.

The visual impact of the extension was reduced by setting back the extension from the primary street frontages, and, where possible, the existing roof line was retained. The external appearance was informed by the existing form and order of the original building.

Although the existing building is not listed, it is sited within the Parsonage Road Conservation Area, and is of historic importance to the city. Consideration was required on how to ensure the integration of the new-build sections of the hotel with the existing building. The challenge specifically related to the massing, appearance and height of the additional floors. A total of 40 luxury bedrooms were provided in the lower floors, with varying layout and sizes, including high-quality suites.