111 Piccadilly Manchester's smartest workspace

A 200ft innovative lighting installation powered by advanced photovoltaics will be the centrepiece of what is set to become Manchester’s smartest new workspace.

It is part of a major refurbishment project starting next month at Bruntwood Works’ 111 Piccadilly building. Illuminating three sides of the iconic building, it will be visible from across the city centre, while a striking new ‘gem’ structure will also be added to transform the shape of the entrance.

The ground-breaking lighting concept will incorporate LEDs throughout and will be powered by sustainable energy via photovoltaics. The photovoltaics will also support the power generation for the ground floor of the building.

It is just one of the smart features planned for 111 Piccadilly. Advanced technology also includes sensors monitoring air quality, space utilisation and energy usage.

Customer health and wellbeing will be improved via a new cutting-edge circadian lighting system, which is designed to create a natural environment regulating a 24-hour cycle of sleep, wake, hunger, alertness, hormone release, and body temperature.

A multi functional kiosk with display screen enabling live updates on wayfinding in the building, TFGM timetable information and air quality standards is also being introduced. As well as an interactive screen providing digital artwork, automatic visitor arrival notifications and access to The Collective - Bruntwood’s new online community platform.

Expected to complete in March 2020, 111 Piccadilly is set to become the first coworking space in the UK, potentially one of the first in Europe, to achieve Platinum standard WELL certification.

Ciara Keeling, CEO for Bruntwood Works, said: “We’re extremely excited to progress our plans for 111 Piccadilly. Located in the heart of Manchester, we believe it will create an incredible gateway into the city centre. From amazing cutting-edge technology to sustainable features and a new stunning illuminated exterior, it is set to make a major impact on Manchester.

“All of the new features from the 200ft interactive lighting scheme to the impressive community space in the Gem are designed to innovate and improve our customers’ experience. The health, wellness and community aspects of a building are vital and this is just the first of many of our properties to receive such a revolutionary makeover.”

A key element to the building’s transformation, which is part of Bruntwood Works £50m Pioneer refurbishment project, include a new sculptured feature, the ‘Gem’, which will provide a stunning art exhibition and seating space for people to gather and socialise.

Built from glass and copper panels assembled at angles to create a ‘gem’ effect, the space will create a captivating entrance area designed to attract attention from passing commuters.

A new independent café and lounge open to the public will also be introduced on the ground floor to create a welcoming arrival experience, a vibrant coworking area as well as a meeting and event space. The community spaces will host a regular programme of inspiring events bringing together businesses from across the city to network and collaborate.

Biophilic design will be incorporated to create a healthy, productive workplace. Internal planting and greenery will be displayed throughout, as well as enhanced natural lighting and extensive use of natural materials.

A striking green portal is being designed and installed by ANS on the London Road elevation, while an external garden adjacent to the car park entrance is being created outside the reception doors with trees planted in partnership with City of Trees.

111 Piccadilly will offer the full mix of Bruntwood Works products, from coworking spaces and hot desks to serviced, leased and Made & Managed offices, so customers can develop and grow within the building.

111 Piccadilly is part of Bruntwood Work’s £50m Pioneer customer-focused building transformation programme aimed at transforming a number of its key buildings across the North and Midlands. Pioneer buildings offer Bruntwood Works’ full range of products and focus on providing a hospitality-led arrival experience and improved community event spaces. Details of more Pioneer transformations will be unveiled soon.