Gone in today.(shame :) )

Apart from 1 Hardman Square, 2 Spinningfileds Square was the other proposal I was really looking forward to seeing. Sure others feel the same?
From what little information and renders we've seen, No2 could be another amazing addition to the Spinningfileds site. Unfortunately there is no further information or renders until next week when the associated documents are updated.

The only renders we've seen so far.

http://www.spinningfields-manchester.com/images/spinningfields/spinning_buildings_2ssq_01.jpg

http://www.spinningfields-manchester.com/images/spinningfields/spinning_buildings_2ssq_02.jpg

Overhang.

http://www.spinningfields-manchester.com/images/spinningfields/spinning_buildings_2ssq_03.jpg

080139/CC/2006/C1

Manchester Newspapers Ltd
164 Deansgate (Plot 106 In The Adopted Spinningfields Masterplan)
Manchester

CONSERVATION AREA CONSENT Demolition of existing four storey office building on land bounded by John Rylands Library, 1 Spinningfields Square, The Magistrates Court/Crown Square and Deansgate

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/publicaccess/dc/DcApplication/application_detailview.aspx?caseno=J2PCDLBCK3000&searchtype=WEEKLY

080138/FO/2006/C1

Manchester Newspapers Ltd
164 Deansgate (plot 106 In The Adopted Spinningfields Masterplan)
Manchester

Demolition of existing office building and erection of a mixed use retail and office building with basement and mezzanine floor (use classes A1, A2, A3, A4 and B1), with related landscaping and associated works

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/publicaccess/dc/DcApplication/application_detailview.aspx?caseno=J2PBI2BCK3000&searchtype=WEEKLY

PS. Has anyone kept the diagram I knocked up last year of the proposal? If so could you please post it. Thanks.

Get the title of this thread sorted, for Pete's sake...

Get the title of this thread sorted, for Pete's sake...

:omg:

See what you mean MP. No excuses. :nuts: :ohno: :clown:

Caw. Thanks.

PS. There's no need to be so dramatic MP.

Another glass box?

Another glass box?

No.

This is a fantastic building, does anyone have any photos, from the open day, of the model after the man-with-the-pink-shirt fixed it?

http://static.flickr.com/72/172080845_c984ecf302.jpg?v=0

I've got this, but i aint right.
Well basically, take the top parallelogram and flip it - voila. What did the architect say? something like a 20m overhang...

This is a fantastic building, does anyone have any photos, from the open day, of the model after the man-with-the-pink-shirt fixed it?

http://static.flickr.com/72/172080845_c984ecf302.jpg?v=0

I've got this, but i aint right.
Well basically, take the top parallelogram and flip it - voila. What did the architect say? something like a 20m overhang...

It looks great. I assume that this is gonna be the main retail part of Spinningfields, with the Armanis etc. Would make the most sense - right on Deansgate. The other area that would make sense would be the site of Manchester House on Bridge street and tease people into the future Hardman Square.

Exactly what we already know.

Absolute quality. Superb cladding, etc.

About 6.30pm tonight. ;)

Bye! :)

A bit late as usual.(nothing new there)

Just uploading images. Unfortunately a few are blurred.

In the mean time click on the link and have a look a what the next SSC Manchester meeting will be like. BTW, Longfords wearing the red coat.

Please make sure your speakers are on.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLjRIuHfTLQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLjRIuHfTLQ


ooooo, now that Nicole being stoopid (the next one down) is rather horny :)

ooooo, now that Nicole being stoopid (the next one down) is rather horny :)
oooh she is isnt she!

Why do fit young girls always go out with skinny, pastey faced,floppy haired boys and not fat, beardy, baldy 36 year olds?
One of lifes mysteries.
Perhaps because fat, beardy, baldy 36 year olds wont act stupid for a video and then post it on the internet!
Youth is wasted on the young!

Sorry about the quality on some of the pics.

Architects, Sheppard Robson.

Mixed use. Shops, office, leisure. (bar terrace situtated at the back of the building) Height 5 storeys + plant. Couldn't find the length of the overhang.

From the planning application.

The elevation composition is built up of a rich pattern of trapezoidal panels. These vary between solid/opaque to glazed/translucent, semi translucent and fully transparent.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture302x.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture307.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture295x.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture297x.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture300x.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture304x.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture303x.jpg

Sleepy.

Couldn't get what you wanted to see. Wasn't available.

James Bond aint got nothing to worry about has he?
You still havent explained your Manchester Banner thread this morning CommanderJRB - or did you dream it?

No problem. Thanks a million for the above. :okay:

This building looks great. That's one hell of a cantilever. Its of the order of what I expected from images previously posted but nevertheless it still looks incredibly imposing.

I like how the detail in the facade manages the transition between the scale of 1 Spinningfields Square and the detail of the Rylands Library. It makes for an effective foil for both buildings - quite an achievment!

The cladding is quite a surprise isn't it? (Well maybe not the use of glass!) The use of trapezoidal shapes is quite clever in carrying through the inverted trapezoid shape theme of the building itself.


Really looking forward to this one. Thanks again.


:applause:

James Bond aint got nothing to worry about has he?
You still havent explained your Manchester Banner thread this morning CommanderJRB - or did you dream it?

Believe it or not Mr Longford I was being serious. Who did the banner? Can't remember seeing it before, and northing's been banded about on the forum regards making one.

No problem. Thanks a million for the above. :okay:

This building looks great. That's one hell of a cantilever. Its of the order of what I expected from images previously posted but nevertheless it still looks incredibly imposing.

I like how the detail in the facade manages the transition between the scale of 1 Spinningfields Square and the detail of the Rylands Library. It makes for an effective foil for both buildings - quite an achievment!

The cladding is quite a surprise isn't it? (Well maybe not the use of glass!) The use of trapezoidal shapes is quite clever in carrying through the inverted trapezoid shape theme of the building itself.


Really looking forward to this one. Thanks again.


:applause:

The cladding looks superb. The picture's don't do it justice.

11 other buildings with similar types of cladding have been used as examples in the planning application. Hopefully the list and images will be in next weeks associated documents? Can't remember them.

Believe it or not Mr Longford I was being serious. Who did the banner? Can't remember seeing it before, and northing's been banded about on the forum regards making one.
What fuckin banner you nutcase! :weird:
All i can see is Tanzania's largest city at the moment!

Me too.

jrb - have you been messing with the date on your computer so that your software doesn't expire?

What fuckin banner you nutcase! :weird:
All i can see is Tanzania's largest city at the moment!

This one you Warburtons fruit loaf. :hilarious

Can't anyone see it? It's still there. :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/5.jpg

PS. Stay around for another 5/10 minutes.....

ah - very nice. Not mine though - not enough concrete in it to be one of mine.

ah - very nice. Not mine though - not enough concrete in it to be one of mine.

You should do one.(a banner that is :) )

You should do one.(a banner that is :) )

Here you go!
http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f85/garybaldy/Untitled-1copy.jpg

2 Spinningfields Square anyone?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture304x.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture303x.jpg

yeah. Reminds me of something that....

http://www.moonbase99.it/Stingray/images/Marineville.JPG

........or!
http://www.bewarethecheese.com/12toblorone.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture303x.jpg

Very nice. Dramatic cantilever, quality little public space, will add a great deal to the view down Deansgate. :applause:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture304x.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture303x.jpg

It really is a clever building and as the more architecturally educated have already said, it makes for a groovy link between Rylands and RBS building.

The mosaic of triangular glass panels look almost like a bit of early Islamic art. Rylands, though it is nominally late North European Gothic in style reminds me of a gothic cathedral in Spain (can't recall which one) and the new building complements this so well. It will be a great public space too.

Shame about the not so good Rylands extension (I know it's not that bad), though to be honest it'll not be noticed.

Yep, it hides the JRL extension, so I'm all for it.

Yep, it hides the JRL extension, so I'm all for it.
:laugh:
Its funny cos its true!

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m122/darencounsel/IMGP0500.jpg
check this overhang

Nice - where are the windows?

Hmmm... undecided as of yet.

Associated documents are now online.

http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/publicaccess/dc/DcApplication/application_detailview.aspx?caseno=J2PCDLBCK3000&searchtype=WEEKLY

Landscape plan.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/spinnnnnn.jpg

That looks very smart.

I like the design, but I'll miss the feeling of space that little 'square' used to have. Hopefully the overhang will stop the place feeling claustrophobic.

Reminds me a wee bit of Peckham Library (overhang wise)

http://www.southwark.gov.uk/images/imageManagement/Large/IMAGE8730.JPG

http://www.southwark.gov.uk/images/imageManagement/Large/IMAGE5566.JPG

I like the design, but I'll miss the feeling of space that little 'square' used to have. Hopefully the overhang will stop the place feeling claustrophobic.

That was my feeling and I'm a little disappointed that John Rylands will be hidden. Thta said looking at the architects sketches, it appears that they have taken both of these aspects into consideration and the building looks quality, so i await the finish article with some anticipation. We shall see.

Just to update this thread.

http://www.building.co.uk/Pictures/web/a/t/d/40NEWS15.jpg


Really excited about the prospect of this building.

New Manchester takes shape

6 October, 2006


Allied London has won planning consent for the latest building in its Spinningfields development in Manchester.

Just to update this thread.

http://www.building.co.uk/Pictures/web/a/t/d/40NEWS15.jpg


Really excited about the prospect of this building.

In its own way, this building is just as exciting as CJC or IWMN. So striking and - dare I say it - iconic. It will be so striking to passers-by and exciting surprise for out-of-towners. I love it.

It's good and all but it's not exactly big, where the hell is no 1??

The same picture but larger. I've removed the annoying lamppost infront of
No2 in the second picture.

Another great addition to Spinnigfields. :)

I really can't wait until images of No1(Foster) are finally released.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/az-2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/azx.jpg

I have this unstoppable urge to post this picture:

http://img48.imageshack.us/img48/1361/zhsbceggbox1sg7.jpg

Sorry for asking a really stupid question JRB - but is that defo a lamppost and not a support for the overhang?

Its definitely a lamp post. Its already there in fact. It was installed as part of Allied London's landscaping works to Spinningfields Square. A major part of this proposal's interest is provided by the incredible cantilever. If there was a cheeky column propping it up I don't think it would have quite the appeal!

On other images, ive seen a support yes.

No. There is no additional support.

haha. talk about conflicting advice! Id like to be proven wrong. I much prefer it without.

How about this? Elevation and section drawings taken from the planning application.

Elevation drawing
http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/selecteddoc.aspx?080138-DRG-0015.pdf

Section drawing
http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/selecteddoc.aspx?080138-DRG-0008.pdf


Full planning application
http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/MCCList1.aspx?080138/FO/2006/C1

I hope you're wrong and Sleepy right too Mez - half its attraction is its seeming defiance of gravity...

It would lose so much of its appeal with a stilt...

http://www.galinsky.com/buildings/peckham/angleelev.jpg

How about this? Elevation and section drawings taken from the planning application.

Elevation drawing
http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/selecteddoc.aspx?080138-DRG-0015.pdf

Section drawing
http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/selecteddoc.aspx?080138-DRG-0008.pdf


Full planning application
http://www.publicaccess.manchester.gov.uk/associateddocs/MCCList1.aspx?080138/FO/2006/C1

Phew! Thanks for the confirmation Sleepy!

http://www.brucebelltours.com/assets/images/Grange2--OCAD.jpg

Another Alsop design. Giant pencils for stilts. I like, but only in moderation.

http://www.brucebelltours.com/assets/images/Grange2--OCAD.jpg

Another Alsop design. Giant pencils for stilts. I like, but only in moderation.

I was gonna ask where that was - until I noticed the big dock-off clue in the background!

Yep, Kensington village in Toronto. Saw that last week. College of Art if i remember correctly. Its an impressive building right in the middle of quite a low rise area.

I was gonna ask where that was - until I noticed the big dock-off clue in the background!

:lol: Its the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD). Certiainly a quirky building. Its in the downtown area on Toronto but not in a particularly prominent location, which I think is more suited to Alsop's designs. They are good to stumble across and fun, but I find that general consensus isn't positive enough to be any kind of centre piece.

Some of his ideas at the super city exhibition at the Urbis, a while back were horrifying. New Islington is perfect for his work though.

^^ I'm a bit leary of these 'stilted' type buildings. They're certainly very quirky an all that, but don't you think they are a disaster just waiting to happen? Oh, the engineers have obviously factored in the load bearing of the stilts but what about the safety aspect?
I don't want to sound too alarmist but has anyone thought of what would happen if these 'stilts' supporting the big mofo structure above was 'taken out'? (ie. hit by a heavy vehicle or exploded in an act of terrorism etc).

I always give that #1 Deansgate and RBS a wide berth when I go by them...;)

^^ I'm a bit leary of these 'stilted' type buildings. They're certainly very quirky an all that, but don't you think they are a disaster just waiting to happen? Oh, the engineers have obviously factored in the load bearing of the stilts but what about the safety aspect?
I don't want to sound too alarmist but has anyone thought of what would happen if these 'stilts' supporting the big mofo structure above was 'taken out'? (ie. hit by a heavy vehicle or exploded in an act of terrorism etc).

I always give that #1 Deansgate and RBS a wide berth when I go by them...;)


most buildings are designed with some sort of structural redundancy. if 1 stilt failed, rest of the structure would be able to cope. also the stilts are often very slender for cosmetic reasons, in reality they are extemely strong and heavy

most buildings are designed with some sort of structural redundancy. if 1 stilt failed, rest of the structure would be able to cope. also the stilts are often very slender for cosmetic reasons, in reality they are extemely strong and heavy
Oh...well that's alright then, I feel much better....(gulp)....

most buildings are designed with some sort of structural redundancy. if 1 stilt failed, rest of the structure would be able to cope. also the stilts are often very slender for cosmetic reasons, in reality they are extemely strong and heavy
Oh...well that's alright then, I feel much better now....(gulp)....

most buildings are designed with some sort of structural redundancy.

What a brilliant term. I'm going to use it all the time now, every time one of my mates starts talking about knocking walls down, I'll walk around scratching my chin and trying to look clever and then I'll mutter something about structural redundancy :)

Am I supposed to like 2HS? Everyone else seems to, but it does have the potential to look like that bloody awful HSBC building, which I think is near Moorfields station in Liverpool.....??

Somebody said that it's a shame any building has to go next to the John Rylands Library at all, plus blocking out the view of Hardman Square. I agree. Not impressed.

Another article on this building with some interesting detail.

Private view

Friday, October 06, 2006

http://www.bdonline.co.uk/Pictures/web/u/y/n/spinningfields_ready.jpg

The Avenue, designed by Sheppard Robson creative director Tim Evans, has become the latest building to win planning consent at Allied London’s Spinningfields development in Manchester.

The 3,700sq m building comprises a gallery, restaurant, retail space and 2,400sq m of office space. Construction is due to start next March for completion in September 2008.

Spinningfields, a new business district, features Denton Corker Marshall’s soon-to-be-completed Civil Justice Centre, two office buildings by Foster & Partners under construction, and Gensler’s completed Magistrates’ Court

I really don't like that. What is that? This is really not the place to make an architectural "statement" with an eyecatching zigger and a cliched overhang like some Borg metallic growth climbing on to the JRL's face. You know, sometimes I hold my head in my hands and mutter absolutely fucking clueless.

I think it looks superb next to the library like that. You see a lot of stuff like that in places like London and Dublin.

Here's the site

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0923.jpg

great place for a building, it will cut off the views of the Gothic library, but you can't stop building to preseve sight lines of everything.

Still not keen on the proposed building though...

Somebody said that it's a shame any building has to go next to the John Rylands Library at all, plus blocking out the view of Hardman Square. I agree. Not impressed.

Basil Champneys' design for the Rylands is a masterpiece, amongst other things because the sides were alays intended to be seen in extreme foreshortening from narrow alleys. The view across the current void ruins these carefully calculated proportions (and allows a view of the roof, which Champneys always intended to be hidden).

I see the demolition of the old MEN building as started , i wonder if this and 3 Hardman St will being going up at the same time ?

How is 3 Hardman Street coming along? Is it under construction yet? Will be taller than the Great Northern Tower!

Actually, see the 3 Hardman Street thread:

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=321439&page=2

Taken yesterday.

MEN building has finally been obliterated.:)

Note the L.S. Lowry figure. :lol:

(Bloody Micra drivers)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture3887.jpg

Apparently it still hasn't been signed off.

Door was open.

Nothing ATM.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture3959.jpg

New renders and information over 2 Spinningfields Square and The Avenue

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/9971/avenue1yy0.jpg

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/8509/avenuetextip4.jpg

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/2400/avenue2wf5.jpg

All information from http://www.theavenuemanchester.com/

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/5260/theavenueretailplants3.jpg

And also there is a video of a walkthrough of The Avenue and 2 Spiningfields Square certainly looks like a great addition to the scheme

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/2410/avenuetext2xw0.jpg

Wow, very slick presentation.

2 Spinningfields Square is certainly a spectacular building but I do wonder about how attractive the new street "The Avenue" will be as a whole. It will be a world away from King Street. All shops will be situated on the ground floor of just five incredible large, grey, glassy buildings - nothing like the riot of colour and diversity of architecture of King Street - surely one of the attributes that makes it one of the best shopping streets around.

The Avenue will be a very, very different proposition. Sure the units will be larger and better suited to the requirements of retailers but I think Allied London will have to be very creative (or prescriptive) in terms of the shop frontages if The Avenue is to be as successful and attractive a destination for shoppers and retailers as King St.

I (erroneously) perceived the Spinningfields project to be just a grouping of fancy office buildings.

When it's all finished it looks like it will be 'mini city' all of it's own.

I can definitely see it being used as backdrop in future movie/TV productions that require an 'ultra-modern down-town' look.

Should be an interesting and trendy district of this great city.

I imagine it'll be like some of the shopping parades in the city of London, providng upscale services to office workers. Cafes, estate agents, opticians, travel agents, a bar and high end random crap (lugagge maybe).

Diggers hard at work on site today ,, and the base of a crane got delivered the other day .

Diggers hard at work on site today ,, and the base of a crane got delivered the other day .

It's beautiful! Great news H. Really looking forward to this little beaut. :)

Yeah ,, looking forward to this also matey , Spinningfield's is really coming on now , i work in 4 HS and got great veiws from everywhere , i'll get some pics when the manager is out :)

jerb ,, you have pm

Crane in place and piling has started. Got some pics. (yeah!):banana:

Crane in place and piling has started. Got some pics. (yeah!):banana:

Correction. Had another look today. Crane not on site yet,(4 cranes for No3) but piling was taking place.

Correction. Had another look today. Crane not on site yet,(4 cranes for No3) but piling was taking place.

Typical City - flatter to deceive... :tongue2:

Even more information and renders about The Avenue at Spinningfields

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/9607/avenuestreetaj3.jpg

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/5240/avenuestreettextrc8.jpg

Avenue North

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/4168/avenuenorthfn7.jpg

http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/3209/avenuenorthtextpo2.jpg

Avenue South

http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/403/avenuesouthga4.jpg

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/5145/avenuesouthtextor9.jpg

1 Crown Square (i dont think a render of this building has ever been seen)

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/151/1crownsquaresn5.jpg

http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/9683/1crownsquaretextxx6.jpg

This information has all come from http://www.theavenuemanchester.com/

Crane base now on site .

Crane base now on site .

Spot on as per usual H. Saw the base today as I drove past.(very slowly) It's located to the right of the site,(opposite JR) near enough up against the hoardings, not far from the Deansgate Entrance/gate.

I didn't think this had planning permission yet? They've been piling for a while.

I'd be surprised if serious construction began for a while as this site is a main access route into the part of 3 Hardman Street that is still substantially unbuilt.

Think it has been posted before.

http://www.arplus.com/MIPIM/entries/entries/168/168.pdf

http://www.propertyweek.com/Pictures/web/b/t/p/venue.jpg

Has this, or has this not, had planning permission yet? Is it actually under construction? It's in the constructionthread and yet I've not seen a costruction picture for a while. Looking forward to going home to Manchester to see Spinningfields.

Yep it under construction matey ,

Crane gone up this morning

Got some great shots of the site this afternoon. Sometimes I love my job (other times I hate it) because it gets me into quite a few well placed shiny office blocks. Will upload the pictures later. Camera phone so the pics are a bit grainy.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture4217-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture4220.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture4221.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/050-6.jpg

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/1.png

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/2.png

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/3.png

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/4.png

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/5.png

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/6.png

Nice renders. Where did you nick them from? :) Is anyone else slightly moist about this little beauty?

Nice renders. Where did you nick them from? :) Is anyone else slightly moist about this little beauty?

i kinda like it, but i have just one issue, the angled upper floors should be angled the other way and then there would be an uninterupted view of JR

the site line drg, and the render facing JR don't compare. Either the render is wrong or the site line drg is fibbing

the whole concept for the top floor sliding isn't that complicated. surely it would have been possible to mirror the building on its centrline, and thus open up JR for better viewing

I was just thinking, wouldn't this building be perfect for the new Frank Cohen MoCA.

Whatever happened to that btw, I was looking forward to it.

i kinda like it, but i have just one issue, the angled upper floors should be angled the other way and then there would be an uninterupted view of JR

the site line drg, and the render facing JR don't compare. Either the render is wrong or the site line drg is fibbing

the whole concept for the top floor sliding isn't that complicated. surely it would have been possible to mirror the building on its centrline, and thus open up JR for better viewing

I think nerd or Longford or one of that crowd of sandal wearing, real ale drinking appreciators of postwar ugliness once gave a long and drawn out explanation about how you weren't really supposed to see the back end of JRL anyway and therefore shoving a building right next to it is a good idea because you see the building in the setting that was always intended.

I was convinced anyway.

I think nerd or Longford or one of that crowd of sandal wearing, real ale drinking appreciators of postwar ugliness once gave a long and drawn out explanation about how you weren't really supposed to see the back end of JRL anyway and therefore shoving a building right next to it is a good idea because you see the building in the setting that was always intended.

I was convinced anyway.

I have read their views. I think it a shame that the new entrance to Rylands will be obliterated. It only in the last couple of years that I got to know that this is a library and that you can visit it (sad i know). The Deansgate view is of a closed shop, the new entrance tells people that is is an attraction. How can hiding this be a good thing?

Core starting to go up.(?) The mighty No3 in the background.(2 pics)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture061.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture063.jpg

Core starting to go up.(?)

Indeed, the core is shooting up!

Core starting to go up.(?) The mighty No3 in the background.(2 pics)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture061.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture063.jpg

Today. Going up.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture085-1.jpg

Interesting atricle about Allieds/Spinningfields retail pitch. I'll scan it and post it tonight along with the Piccadilly Tower piece + others.

Flagship Premises at 2 Spinningfields Square

Work has begun on the new flagship store at 2 Spinningfields Square. The building will serve as an iconic gateway from Manchester’s Deansgate to The Avenue at Spinningfields, which is to become a new and exclusive fashion retail thoroughfare.

Designed by Tim Evans of Shepherd Robson, the building will be completely clad in different forms of glass and feature a dramatic nine metre high trading area glazed on all four elevations.

The three upper floors comprise 26,500 of exceptionally high quality office space plus a private terrace on the second floor.

Creating spectacular headquarters style offices and designed for use by an exclusive brand corporate or professional service occupier, the space is self contained and separately accessed. It is available for pre-lease with floor plates of 7,500 sq ft which are ideally suited to cellular or open plan format

http://www.spinningfields-manchester.com/page/1070

From this weeks EGI.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/100.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/99-1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/98.jpg

I have read their views. I think it a shame that the new entrance to Rylands will be obliterated. It only in the last couple of years that I got to know that this is a library and that you can visit it (sad i know). The Deansgate view is of a closed shop, the new entrance tells people that is is an attraction. How can hiding this be a good thing?I would presume the angle on the cantilever is orientated that way as to notionally funnel pedestrian traffic off Deansgate and down the Avenue where all of Spinningfields retail is going to be.

I understand your point about Rylands, but frankly neither the new entrance or the magistrates particularly warrant being on such display as they currently are with nothing in front of them, and the gesture of the building slanting the other way would have made the primary pedestrian route somewhat ambiguous. This arrangement still defers heavily to Rylands primacy.

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/023-3.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/025-3.jpg

^^

I know there's been discussion about the orientation of the angle of the front elevation and whether it is detracting from/obscuring John Rylands...but in the render on the billboard above, it's almost as if the new building is 'pointing' to the John Rylands....kind of saying 'yeah, I'm not bad-looking, but check out my neighbour!'

it certainly doesn't detract from Rylands, it seems to co-habit quite well.. but we'll see eventually

Rylands needs better spot lights in the evening. It has virtually none and will be even easier to miss at night when 2SS is complete and all lit up itself.

Two cores and some steelwork going up..
http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg270/SteKnight/Avenue170308.jpg?t=1205770368

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/072.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/015-5.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/018-4.jpg

New renders of The Avenue from

http://www.theavenuemanchester.com

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/613/newavenue1ft5.jpg

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/739/newavenue2bx5.jpg

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/2417/newavenue3go5.jpg

Also there is now by the looks of things a few confirmed retailers for The Avenue they are:-

Armani - 2 Spinningfields Square (Flagship Store)
Paul Smith - 1 Crown Square (Flagship Store)
Hugo Boss
DKNY
Mulberry

Armani and Hugo Boss have been confirmed for a while now and there was the possiblity of Paul Smith opening as there logo is on the 1 Crown Square render on the Spinningfields website.

does this mean they will be leaving their other stores? or are these second or in Armani's case third stores?

I like the look of "The Avenue", like the name too. Manchester will be a shoppers paradise when this is up and running, although I doubt I'll be shopping in any of these shops, I'm more ya TK Maxx type of guy.

According to Estates Gazette Allied London have bought Armani's store on King Street much like they have done with office occupiers at Spinningfields.

It is believed that part of the Armani package included Allied London taking on the retailer's King Street store - a tactic it has pioneered with some of Spinningfields' office occupiers.

New renders of The Avenue from

http://www.theavenuemanchester.com

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/613/newavenue1ft5.jpg

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/739/newavenue2bx5.jpg

http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/2417/newavenue3go5.jpg

Also there is now by the looks of things a few confirmed retailers for The Avenue they are:-

Armani - 2 Spinningfields Square (Flagship Store)
Paul Smith - 1 Crown Square (Flagship Store)
Hugo Boss
DKNY
Mulberry

Armani and Hugo Boss have been confirmed for a while now and there was the possiblity of Paul Smith opening as there logo is on the 1 Crown Square render on the Spinningfields website.

Can I be the only person that thinks the 2nd and 3rd pictures look like some grim Kafkaesque communist era Eastern European nightmare? (despite the appearance of the wonderful CJC)

Can I be the only person that thinks the 2nd and 3rd pictures look like some grim Kafkaesque communist era Eastern European nightmare? (despite the appearance of the wonderful CJC)

well now you mention it. :| those flags sticking out proudly don't help much do they. i think the render is confusing, with conveying scale. in reality the public realm will not be on the scale of communist central squares, and there aren't many flags and the architecture isn't (feel free to disagree) notably overbearing and belittling. at least not on purpose! liberating architecture, that's how i see spinningfields. so much space.

well now you mention it. :| those flags sticking out proudly don't help much do they. i think the render is confusing, with conveying scale. in reality the public realm will not be on the scale of communist central squares, and there aren't many flags and the architecture isn't (feel free to disagree) notably overbearing and belittling. at least not on purpose! liberating architecture, that's how i see spinningfields. so much space.

Maybe it is the flags. Certainly they are being very frank about the lack of light on this street. But I generally like Spinningfields, I just hope the additional buildings at the bottom end opposite the proposed 1HS don't make it a bit... well, Stalinist

The overhang is now in place- albeit with temporary supports. It gives a good impression already of the impact that it will give and I'm rather pleased to say should obstruct less of John Rylands Library than might have been feared.

The overhang is now in place- albeit with temporary supports. It gives a good impression already of the impact that it will give and I'm rather pleased to say should obstruct less of John Rylands Library than might have been feared.

Taken today. (camera phone)

In the third picture I've cloned out the supports. (that really is some overhang) Note what a professional job I've done. If anyone's intersted in employing a Photoshop wizz PM me. :lol:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture316.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture318.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture318888.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/005-5.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/006-4.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/007-3.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/013-6.jpg

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg270/SteKnight/Avenue020508.jpg?t=1209735649

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/067-1.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/066-2.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/065-3.jpg

This is going to be one hell of a cantilever once the temporary supports are removed!
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e321/carlf/Manchester/IMG_5911.jpg

This is going to be one hell of a cantilever once the temporary supports are removed!
http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e321/carlf/Manchester/IMG_5911.jpg

True Hifi.

Saw it in the flesh on Friday. It really is going to be another great addition. Probably more excitied about this than any other build ATM.

A 23m cantilever.

Its going to be one of Manchester's true landmarks for many years

Well done to Allied London and all involved.

Walked by this today and was impressed.

I'll be giving cantilever a wide berth. Too much of an overhang. Scary...

I'll be giving cantilever a wide berth.

Yes - a few thousand miles i reckon (depending what side of Canada you live on!) :nuts:

I couldn't quite tell wandering past this yesterday. Is is now at full height? The impact on the John Rylands Library vista, should certainly be more positive than negative IMO. A harmony of classic and modern- both originals.

I couldn't quite tell wandering past this yesterday. Is is now at full height? The impact on the John Rylands Library vista, should certainly be more positive than negative IMO. A harmony of classic and modern- both originals.

all they had to do was slope the front eleveatiion the other way around and they wouldn't have obstructed the library, not hard really :ohno:
apart from that a very good addition to the area

I couldn't quite tell wandering past this yesterday. Is is now at full height? The impact on the John Rylands Library vista, should certainly be more positive than negative IMO. A harmony of classic and modern- both originals.

yes, that's the full height

all they had to do was slope the front eleveation the other way around and they wouldn't have obstructed the library, not hard really :ohno:
apart from that a very good addition to the area

True, but the current configuration opens up the upmarket shopping St that is promised and furthermore to the heart of Spinnigfields.

True, but the current configuration opens up the upmarket shopping St that is promised and furthermore to the heart of Spinnigfields.

i forgot about that, but surely it could have been done without obscuring one of the best buildings in manchester. the design looks great, love the building, it just doesn't sit well in its location

all they had to do was slope the front eleveatiion the other way around and they wouldn't have obstructed the library, not hard really :ohno:
apart from that a very good addition to the area

I walked past yesterday, and noted that the building IS the 'right way around'! At ground and first floor level, 2SS slopes in the opposite direction to the top 3 floors, which enables the entire length of JRL to be seen beneath the cantilever. If it were transposed, only 60% or so would be seen. So, unless you're passing on the upper deck of a bus, or a Cheshire Tractor, they got it right!

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/1.png

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/2.png

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/3.png

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/4.png

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/5.png

http://www.virtual-planit.com/CHRIS/avenue/6.png

bammys post kind of shows that even in the optimum position there is still a bit of the library obscured by the overhang. maybe i'm just being a pedant, but thank god it doesn't obscure the RBS building:)

those two sight-line images don't appear to me to be the same design :dunno:

the prop has now gone from under the cantilever. Quite a sight.

yes i got some pics today. they don't show the full effect too well though.

the prop has now gone from under the cantilever. Quite a sight.

Interesting. I'm in town on Friday so I'll get some pics.

today.

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/avenue%20-%20spinningfields%20-%202008_6_16/IMG_5093%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/avenue%20-%20spinningfields%20-%202008_6_16/IMG_5101%20copy.jpg

sun wrong side in afternoon really.

wowsers..

although on that bottom pic I was so pre-occupied in the superstructure that I thought there was a demo on at street level, lol.. never realised it was the hoardings.

It's going to be a gem. :banana:

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg270/SteKnight/Avenue1606082.jpg?t=1213689697

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg270/SteKnight/Avenue1606082.jpg?t=1213689697

Blood and thunder!

all those American trolly dollies on their airport buses travelling down Deansgate to the Ramada will be saying "ooh look at that cool building"

I agree it's going to be a beaut :)

Spinningfields, Manchester – 500,000 sq ft

Designer and aspirational shopping and restaurant venue opening in phases between 2007 and 2010 with restaurants currently open including Carluccio’s Giraffe, Yo Sushi!, Pret A Manger, Wagamama, EAT, Shimla Pink, Strada, Bar Ha Ha, Café Rouge and GBK, out of what will ultimately be some 25 restaurants and bars in this 4.5 million sq ft mixed use development. As part of the retail element of Spinningfields, Allied London have created The Avenue as Manchester’s premier branded and aspirational retail venue where MVG have secured an initial pre-let with Emporio Armani and Armani Collezioni in a store totalling some 10,000 sq ft in total. Terms have also been agreed with Mulberry, DKNY and Brookes Bros. with recent terms concluded with Paul Smith for the second “anchor” store within The Avenue comprising some 6,500 sq ft. The Avenue is due to open in the Summer of 2009.

Client: Allied London

http://www.mvgretail.com/Portfolio.aspx

First piece of cladding on, looks really good. High quality. Sorry no pics.

First piece of cladding on, looks really good. High quality. Sorry no pics.

Damn!

Damn indeed. :) someone please get me pics, i'm in devon til mid august!

Walked past today, 4 panels on now, on the south side, second floor. Looks serious good quality, ceramic or stone and glass, quite "gherkinesque"! It's difficult to see, cos it's behind the overly high blue metal hoarding. I'll pass tomorrow and get some pics.

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/027-9.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/025-8.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/022-8.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/021-8.jpg

One word. :drool: (drool)

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/027-9.jpg

Walked passed this this morning and was pleasantly surprised at how little it impedes on the view of JR Library. The early renders suggested a bigger intrusion than appears to be the case now. Looking forward to this being completed it looks very promising.

One word. :drool: (drool)

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/027-9.jpg

the cladding is GAWJUS!!! :banana:

cooooolio... funky bit of cladding that is

Today

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y88/faggotbrain/avenueedit1.jpg

That cladding looks reet sexeh

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y88/faggotbrain/avenuecladedit.jpg

The size of the overhang is bloody enourmous. Pictures really don't do it justice.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y88/faggotbrain/avenueoverhangedit.jpg

I'd tap that!

:lol:

What are the plans for the rest of the bar/restaurant units? The ones in so far are all chains, albeit the better chains, but I'm curious if there will anything more unique? Or any of the Manchester chains (Chop House, Tampopo, Odd bar etc...)

Same with the shops, they're all a bit 'straight' with the exception of Paul Smith. Reiss and DAKS would both be good additions for corporate types, and is there a Thomas Pink in Manchester already? I imagine rents will be high, but will there be anything funkier?

Will they want this to be a night-life hub too? Any late bars or even clubs?

5 floors of ugly shit, all cramped in, built where it shouldn't be, totally out of place, sticking two fingers up at the JRL. Oh cringe.

5 floors of ugly shit, all cramped in, built where it shouldn't be, totally out of place, sticking two fingers up at the JRL. Oh cringe.

When did you become a comedian Farsight? Don't give up your day job.

From yesterday
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v404/andysimo123/Manchester%2030th%20July%202008/IMG_4647.jpg

nice one andy, thats really coming along now, I like this one

today. 6 pics.

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_08_17/2%20spinningfields%20square/IMG_6382%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_08_17/2%20spinningfields%20square/IMG_6381%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_08_17/2%20spinningfields%20square/IMG_6379%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_08_17/2%20spinningfields%20square/IMG_6378%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_08_17/2%20spinningfields%20square/IMG_6380%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_08_17/2%20spinningfields%20square/IMG_6383%20copy.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/16919871@N07/2767221059/

Anyone else think it blends in a bit too much with the RBS building to the left?

I was expecting there to be more contrast between the different cladding conditions, the colour to be bolder and more distinctly matte, the grey to be more metallic, the glazing to be more distinctly split into opaque and transparent; perhaps I was reading too much into what the renders were implying. The result is slightly disappointing, and just not as lively as I was imaging; but I still like the building a great deal.

Personally, while I love the shape of the building, I ain't at all fussed about that cladding. IMHO it would look far better all in black, like the sublime David Adjaye Rivington Place scheme...

http://www.contempart.org.uk/images/Events%202007/RivingtonPlaceIniva_m.jpg

I think it will appear far more impressive once all the hoardings and construction stuff is removed and you can see the full cantiliver on its own.

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/001-6.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/002-5.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/003-6.jpg

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/004-6.jpg

6 pics from today

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6639%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6640%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6642%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6643%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6644%20copy.jpg

another 6 pics from today

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6645%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6646%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6647%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6648%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6650%20copy.jpg

http://www.nickgrayson.net/ssc/2008_09_02/avenue%20allied%20london%20spinningfields%20manchester/IMG_6652%20copy.jpg

Quality.

this is realy going up fast isnt it?

Really great there :D
Is the going to be a public plaza next to it?
That would be the icing on the cake for me :)

Yes. It won't be the biggest square, but flanked by the magnificent John Rylands Library, the majestic looking new Armani Store & Deansgate it will be significant.

Can't wait until it's finished, the hoardings are down and the sun is out. Brilliant building.

Taken today. Weather was crap.(as per usual)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture444663.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture444662.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture444665.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture444669.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture444667.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture444666.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture444664.jpg

Nice building but will the Spinningfields pallete of greys and blues excite the shoppers?

Nice building but will the Spinningfields pallete of greys and blues excite the shoppers?

Excitement is the last thing shoppers need.
Distracts them from parting with their cash.

It is a bit, crazy ass... lookin, its almost like Alsop gone corporate

great cladding :) now thats what i like to see

This building just does not sit right with me. Does not fit with the curved slenderness of the RBS building, nor does it have the detail of the Rylands.

It just looks as though the building is trying to surge aggressively into Deansgate in the manner of an Alien head trying to pop out through Sigourney Weaver

This building just does not sit right with me. Does not fit with the curved slenderness of the RBS building, nor does it have the detail of the Rylands.

It just looks as though the building is trying to surge aggressively into Deansgate in the manner of an Alien head trying to pop out through Sigourney Weaver

Sorry Kebebmonster, but your wrong. This picture perfectly illustrates that it does sit well with the RBS. It's also far enough away and smaller in height, so not to impact and/or overwhelm JR. It's also set futher back than both of those buildings meaning it doesn't surge aggressively onto Deansgate. Some of my pictures might be slightly misleading.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture444667.jpg

Building row takes shape

Paul R Taylor

10/ 9/2008

A CONTEMPORARY visual feast complementing its dull Gothic neighbour . . . or another glass box?

Manchester's newest building is already dividing opinion and it's only just taking shape.

Christened the `Rhomboid', the striking angular building stands on the former site of the Manchester Evening News' offices next to the Grade I-listed John Rylands Library, on Deansgate.

Two Spinningfields Square features an unsupported 75ft overhang and will be the gateway to a new multi-million pound up-market shopping street which aims to be Bond Street of the north.

But the design by Tim Evans of Sheppard Robson has attracted criticism for obscuring views of the Rylands and adding nothing new to the cityscape.

Mark Watson, of the Victorian Society, said: "To say it complements the Rylands is a complete load of rubbish.

"It fits in with its architecture in the same way the old M.E.N. building did - not at all. It's not a disaster but it is another rather dull glass building.

"We had world-class architects designing buildings in Victorian Manchester, such as Waterhouse and Worthington but now, unfortunately, the buildings are not even second rate.

"You cannot really put your finger on any new building here and say it is world class. You can like or dislike the Hilton but it's not a great building.

"Neither is the extension to the Rylands itself."

The building will be completed in December and the shops are due to open next summer, with Italian fashion giant Armani opening a 10,000sq ft store over two floors.

Clothing label Paul Smith will occupy the second 6,500sq ft anchor store and brands Mulberry, DKNY and Brookes Bros have also signed up for the scheme.

Patrick Franks, chairman of the Manchester Conservation Panel, said: "The members of our panel are split but they always have diverse opinions and responses because they represent a broad spectrum of organisations, such as Twentieth Century Society and the Victorian Society.

"The Rhomboid is an interesting building and it's probably too soon to have a firm opinion about it."

In a statement, Stuart Lyell, of developers Allied London, said: "It has been designed to positively respond to the Rylands and was extensively reviewed and fully endorsed by English Heritage, resulting in a building of a contemporary design, well detailed, and which would continue a tradition of diversity in terms of height, scale and mix of uses."

Manchester University, which owns the Rylands, is also satisfied with the design.

A spokesman said: "We feel it is a high quality development."

http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/s/1066060_building_row_takes_shape

Think this is a bit shit really.. not bold enough in terms of shape to be really out there and break the mold... a tad half arsed

I can't get over that cantilever, how do they do that and still make it safe? hats off to the engineers.

I can't get over that cantilever, how do they do that and still make it safe? hats off to the engineers.

quite simple, its a giant truss, same as the civil justice centre

This Photo show's a distorted view of the Avenue. Once all the buiding work is co mpleted however and the hoardings are down, you will get really great & inviting view of the main entrance of the pre-Spinnigfields courts. It looks awesome and really adds to the already ample new and old collection of buildings in the city that sit side by side & rebuts some of the unfair criticism that I feel Spinnigfields has attracted for being bland.

For me Spinnigfields, whilst certainly big enough to make a commercial impact, is so well woven into the city as it exists that I never personally feel isolated in some sort of clone city. The rest of the city is never more than a few mminutes walk from the centre of Spinningfields.

It a new quarter of Manchester that never really existed before & that has no other comparable zone within the city, in terms of architecture and space (or use thereof). Furthermore I feel that Spinnigfields has really enhanced existing architecture on the periphary.

All of this long before it is a completed project.....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture444665.jpg

i love it, is this a restaraunt as the hoardings suggest

i love it, is this a restaraunt as the hoardings suggest

2 floors of it will be a new flagship Armani store. The rest will also be retail. The hoardings are just advertising the Spinnigfields development as a whole with all the restaurants it has. Speaking of which I went to Strada on Thursday. After getting over the initial shock of actually finding other diners in there it turned out to be a very nice meal (pizza)

Gourmet Burger Kitchen was doing a decent trade on Thurs night too, I was pleased to see.

Re. The Avenue, on the Deansgate side there is the overhang, whereas at the back, I believe there is a 2nd floor terrace designated for restaurant/ cafe/ bar space.

2 Spinningfields Square

2 Spinningfields Square is an iconic building, located at the principal gateway into Spinningfields. Its stunning architectural form and flagship Armani Store will make this one of the most well known landmarks in the city centre.

A small building by Spinningfields standards, the accommodation will provide unique and high quality space for Armani’s 745 sq.m (8,000 sq ft) flagship store, a 600 sq m (6,500 sq ft) bar and restaurant, plus 2,462 sq m (26,500 sq ft) of exceptional office space.

For more information please go to theavenuemanchester.com.

Architects: Sheppard Robson

Status:
Start: October 2007

Estimated Completion: December 2008

http://www.spinningfieldsonline.com/page/416/Spinningfields/Spinningfields2/Masterplan/The-Buildings/Articles/2-Spinningfields-Square

I walked through spinningfields yesterday, this building has a massive impact considering its size. The overhang will be awesome when its finished and the building doesn't interfere with John Rylands either.

it's too far away from JR to interfere really isn't it. it's further from JR than RBS. i think that's the key thing.
but i think i might have preferred it to point the other way.

...

sorry, could you say that again? :)

sure.
i could.
:tongue4:

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/031-11.jpg

The architects / glaziers on Manchester projects seem to have so much more imagination than the ones on Brum's jobs! So freakin frustrating.

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In town tomorrow early doors. Any requests for pictures. Can't wait to see the Avenue. :)

Taken today.

Good, interesting architecture makes people stop and look. Lots of that going on today while I was taking pictures of the Avenue. Should look even better once all the clutter has been cleared.

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This is turning out to be a real beauty, though there was never much doubt about that.

Fabulous building, I love it. Interesting to see lots of people give it a double-take as it appears to optically defy gravity.

Taken about a week ago. It's probably near enough complete now.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v397/jrb041067/Picture023-1.jpg

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Slightly blurred.

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I notice the interior walls are being built to follow the saw-tooth pattern of the cladding creating another dimension and greater depth to the building's facade. I like the impact of the steel trim too. Very neat.

The lighting has now been installed under the cantiliever at 2 Spinningfields Square.

http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u180/markydeedroppics/City%20Centre%202008/024-10.jpg

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From Flickr.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/zeroliberation/3088992427/in/set-72157608085479930/
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3287/3089830740_160914a1a5.jpg?v=0

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http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3287/3089830740_67dd2b5199_o.jpg

Another two added.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3293/3064560764_e842681d48.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3239/3063744481_958a55fbae.jpg?v=0

^^ That last one is fantastic! This is a beautiful building :cheers:

A brilliant building! A friend of mine was taking photos in Manchester and I couldn't believe he missed this stunning gem, tut tut.

That looks fantastic!

Great defiance of gravity,but I don't think I'd feel 'comfortable' underneath that cantilever for very long! It just sticks out too bleedin' far for my liking!

It's going to get photographed, isn't it.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/42374000/jpg/_42374623_jun9japanese.jpg

Forget the Cavern.

I was never completely convinced with this building when the renders were initially posted, but now its near complete, and after seeing it for real.. I think its a superb addition to the development, the cladding is really sleek and that overhang, wowsers!

This does look amazing,and doesn't seem to block JRL as everyone thought it might.In fact I think it only highlights it and shows it off even more as there is such a strong contrast between the two buildings !
Does anyone know where all those huge trees that were lying behind the railings there last week got planted,obviously somewhere in Spinningfields I guess !

My first post,after reading this forum for far too long decided to finally join and have my say !!!

This does look amazing,and doesn't seem to block JRL as everyone thought it might.In fact I think it only highlights it and shows it off even more as there is such a strong contrast between the two buildings !
Does anyone know where all those huge trees that were lying behind the railings there last week got planted,obviously somewhere in Spinningfields I guess !

My first post,after reading this forum for far too long decided to finally join and have my say !!!

Welcome Oakman. Great building and like you said, it doesn't impact on Rylands. Don't know what happened to the trees.

The trees have recently been planted inbetween JRL and the Avenue ,,its looks really neat .

Welcome Oakman

This does look amazing,and doesn't seem to block JRL as everyone thought it might.In fact I think it only highlights it and shows it off even more as there is such a strong contrast between the two buildings !
Does anyone know where all those huge trees that were lying behind the railings there last week got planted,obviously somewhere in Spinningfields I guess !

My first post,after reading this forum for far too long decided to finally join and have my say !!!

Welcome, Oakman. Glad you took the plunge with your first post.

JRL needs more spotlights. It's poorly lit in the evening and when its neighbour is complete it won't be shying away from showing itself through lighting.

It could have done with lights on the roof of the new build pointing onto JRL.

Cladding is great on this building - would be good to see a similar cladding style on a skyscraper. Gonna have to get myself down to the ice rink at Spinningfields cos there seems to be a lot of interesting stuff going up.

Shouldn't this be renamed 2 Spinningfields Square? Instead of the Avenue?

Nearly finished. :drool:

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My god, that is beautiful, it deserves a better location to really show itself off! I love how little it imposes on John Rylands, and you can still see it right underneath the buliding. FANTASTIC!:cheers:

I love the contrast between it and JR.

it deserves a better location to really show itself off!

Don't you think Deansgate is high-profiloe enough Butters, or are you referring to that fact that it could be in a more spacious locale?

I think it provides a great entrance to The Avenue and will be seen by thousands of people every day. Speaking of which, when will The Avenue be opened to the public? The stores along there should start being refurbed any time soon and opening late spring/ early summer? No doubt Flange will keep us bang up to date ;)

The Avenue has an opening of Spring to Summer 2009 and then 1 Crown Square (Paul Smith store) should be opening late 2009 to early 2010 I think.

I swear this gallery - should be in this building.

The Avenue has an opening of Spring to Summer 2009 and then 1 Crown Square (Paul Smith store) should be opening late 2009 to early 2010 I think.

That is a pretty quick build time for 1 Crown Square considering its only just started!

Well on the Spinningfields website 1 Crown Square has a estimated start at Spring 2008 and estimated completion at Summer 2009, but they are now wrong as it did not start in Spring 08, so I think completion in late 2009 to early 2010 is a pretty reasonable prediction for the completion of 1 Crown Square and then Paul Smith probably opening around Spring 2010.

Also remember that 2 Spinningfields Square only started being built in August 2007 and was completed this month (Decemeber 08) so was only a 16 month build time so will probably be around the same or less for 1 Crown Square as it is not as big a building as 2 Spinningfields Square.

took some photos today, any advice on how to put pics on this site?

http://photobucket.com/

load them up, copy and paste the 'img' tag

took some photos today, any advice on how to put pics on this site?

Open a free Photobucket http://photobucket.com/ account or upload it straightaway via Imageshack http://imageshack.us/index.php.

Don't forget to download your pics on to your computer first.

Cheers Roly...

Pic taken today

http://s434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/ChorleyFotos/?action=view&current=P1000459.jpg

hmmmm.... i must be a tecnophobe

Cheers Roly...

Pic taken today

http://s434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/ChorleyFotos/P1000459.jpg

like this

Built in Quality Awards 2009
Published Monday 2nd February 09 in Environment and planning news

Manchester City Council has unveiled the winners of the prestigious Built in Quality Awards for 2009. The award scheme recognises quality building construction in Manchester.

Winners included a prestigious office and retail development and other quality buildings intended for commercial and residential use.

The Built In Quality Awards are sponsored by the City Council's Building Control service. The awards were presented to eleven outstanding construction projects selected from a total of more than 2600 buildings that the service inspected in the past year.

The awards are unique because they recognise excellent practice across the complete range of building projects. All projects, regardless of their size or complexity are judged against the Built In Quality Awards standards.

Work was assessed against a range of criteria, including site safety, structural stability, fire safety, use of materials, sound insulation, access for all, conservation of fuel and power and weather resistance. A unique feature of the awards is that they consider the project from conception to completion with inspections of the work carried out throughout the construction process.

In recognition of the contribution that energy efficient buildings and the use of sustainable building materials make to minimising carbon emissions the project at 2 Spinningfields Square was awarded this years award for sustainable construction.

Two schemes incorporated designs that were exceptional. They have been recognized by an additional Technical Innovation award, both used unique solutions to achieve outstanding buildings.

The successful schemes have been inspected throughout the construction period by Manchester City Council's Building Control Surveyors. The surveyors are ideally placed to view the quality of the development as it progresses.

The Built In Quality Awards winners announced at a ceremony in Manchester Town Hall were:

Allied London Properties Management, for the erection of a five-storey building to form office, retail, bar and restaurant at 2 Spinningfields Square.
CSC Construction Ltd, for the erection of new housing development, at 1-10 Alderford Parade/90-100 Cardinal Street.
PCM Joinery, loft conversion, at 10 Parnell Avenue.
Eastern Green Ltd, for alterations to floors 1-4 to form 25 flats, at 79 Piccadilly.
Jimsul Construction Ltd, for the erection of 21 houses, at Abbey Hey Lane.
MAG Developments, for the outbound control facilities, at Manchester Airport Terminal 1.
Manchester Metropolitan University, for alterations to the ground, first and fifth floors to form laboratory accommodation at John Dalton Tower.
Rowlinson Constructions Ltd, for the construction of 28 mixed tenure houses at Ashton Old Road, Herne Street/Galston Street, Openshaw.
Stonehurst Estates Ltd, for the alterations and extension for serviced apartments above retail unit and car park at The Light, 3 Joiner Street.
Town Centre Securities, for the alterations and extension to warehouse to form offices at Carvers Warehouse, Dale Street.
Yang Sing Oriental Ltd, for the refurbishment of former listed mill to form hotel, at The Yang Sing Hotel, 36 Princess Street.
West Properties UK Ltd, for Best Partnership with a Contractor.
Blue Sky Architects, Best Partnership with an Architect.
Sustainability Award was presented to:

Allied London Properties Management, for the erection of a five-storey building to form office, retail, bar and restaurant at 2 Spinningfields Square.
The Technical Innovation Awards were presented to:

Stonehurst Estates Ltd, for the alterations and extension for serviced apartments above the retail unit and car park at The Light, 3 Joiner Street.
Allied London Properties Management, for the erection of a five-storey building to form office, retail, bar and restaurant at 2 Spinningfields Square.
Presenting the awards, Councillor Richard Cowell, Executive Member for Environment, for Manchester City Council, said: "It is a real privilege to present these awards to the winners. The Built In Quality Awards have become synonymous with the very best of building in Manchester. The vital contribution of builders and contractors is often overlooked when accolades are given out. I hope this award will inspire all those working in the city's construction industry to new heights.

"The City Council is committed to making Manchester the Greenest City in the UK. The design of the built environment is a major contributor to this objective. Sustainable design and construction provides new buildings and refurbishments that promote environmental, social and economic gains now and for the future.

"New developments should have minimal impact on the environment, at the same time as serving the needs of the people they are designed for. I am particularly pleased to acknowledge developments that have achieved a high level of sustainability."

The high quality of Manchester's developments was nationally recognised last year as four of our local winners were nominated as national finalists. Two of the finalists won Best in Class, and were announced as national winners. Manchester had more finalists than any other city or region in England and Wales, giving national recognition to Manchester's continued successful regeneration.

The City Council's Building Control Service inspect building projects to ensure that they meet minimum Health and Safety standards, that energy conservation is maximized, and that suitable access and facilities are provided for occupiers.

The service has over 150 years of experience in building control matters and employs highly qualified staff to respond to the demands of all types of building projects found within the city.

"The City Council is committed to making Manchester the Greenest City in the UK..."

I'm sorry, the following rant isn't related to this particular building, but that quote is an example of the worst kind of MCC spin bollocks, along with their world-class/24-hour city claims. It's exactly this sort of self-congratulating shite that holds Manchester back.

The thing that strikes me is that it's wrong in the most fundamental way. Manchester could be a beautiful city (as opposed to merely an impressive and fascinating one) if the city council didn't ignore the importance of green space, trees and other plant life in an urban environment. Even the dullest buildings look infinitely better if surrounded by a decent amount of vegetation. The dearth of new construction currently being experienced should present the perfect opportunity to exploit what were previously potential construction sites but it won't happen if the council believe there's money to be made in the future from them, a philosophy that's somewhat at odds with their green aspirations.

Being "green" surely shouldn't end with building sustainability and cutting emissions, should it?

(I should state that I've never been one to knock the council for every little political gripe that may or may not be related to them, but this sort of thing does annoy me.)

I'm sorry, the following rant isn't related to this particular building, but that quote is an example of the worst kind of MCC spin bollocks, along with their world-class/24-hour city claims. It's exactly this sort of self-congratulating shite that holds Manchester back.

let's be honest manchester is full to the brim with self-congratulatory tripe emminating from every-which-agency. it's the sort of stuff the makes people's eyes glaze over when they hear about what's going on here. ffs people hear this dogma and it takes the piss out of the real, amazing, stuff that's going on here. the net effect is that you tell someone what's going on here and they are not phased, no matter how amazing it actually is.

^^ Come on lads, it's the 'Think System'.

You gotta believe. :cool:

i think system therefore i am system? ;)

hehe, well not quite in that context commie. I should have said the 'Think' system.

Mind over matter and all that. (from The Music Man musical c.1961.)

I'm sorry, the following rant isn't related to this particular building, but that quote is an example of the worst kind of MCC spin bollocks, along with their world-class/24-hour city claims. It's exactly this sort of self-congratulating shite that holds Manchester back.

The thing that strikes me is that it's wrong in the most fundamental way. Manchester could be a beautiful city (as opposed to merely an impressive and fascinating one) if the city council didn't ignore the importance of green space, trees and other plant life in an urban environment. Even the dullest buildings look infinitely better if surrounded by a decent amount of vegetation. The dearth of new construction currently being experienced should present the perfect opportunity to exploit what were previously potential construction sites but it won't happen if the council believe there's money to be made in the future from them, a philosophy that's somewhat at odds with their green aspirations.


Being "green" surely shouldn't end with building sustainability and cutting emissions, should it?

(I should state that I've never been one to knock the council for every little political gripe that may or may not be related to them, but this sort of thing does annoy me.)

I agree the council do seem pretty shortsighted at times, whatever happened to that 10m trees to be planted in Manchester thing? To date I think they've planted about 30 along Princess St and I can't quite think of any more. If anyone knows of more I'd be interested.

I agree the council do seem pretty shortsighted at times, whatever happened to that 10m trees to be planted in Manchester thing? To date I think they've planted about 30 along Princess St and I can't quite think of any more. If anyone knows of more I'd be interested.

Unfortunately the Council doesn't have an endless pot of money. They have a relatively small Arbo team who are responsible for planning and maintaining the life of all tree's on the highways across the whole of the City.
There simply isn't the available resources for a City Centre tree team. All they can do is try and encourage developers to include trees and green spaces at the planning stage.

If TiF had gone ahead MCC were to insist that all tree's removed for the laying of metrolink ltracks would have to be replaced, paid for and maintained. Some circa 25000 trees.

Not all of the other LA's would have committed to this act

I understand what you're saying but I'm talking about some other scheme the council announced some time ago, makes me wonder why they announce these things if they don't have the manpower or resources to make them happen?