Ask Real Estate has announced the practical completion of Aviary, a Grade A office refurbishment project located in Manchester’s central business district.
M&G Real Estate acquired the building in 2022 and appointed Ask Real Estate as development manager to spearhead the extensive refurbishment. This project aligns with the emerging brown to green agenda, transforming the 112,000 sq ft building into a sustainable and wellbeing-led office scheme.
The £12.5 million transformation, completed by main contractor TSK, has delivered a best-in-class, amenity-rich workspace designed to meet the growing demand from local and international businesses. Aviary is now net zero carbon in operation and is on track to achieve a NABERS 5-star rating, BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certification, and EPC A rating. By choosing to refurbish rather than demolish and rebuild, M&G has reduced carbon emissions by approximately 69% over the building’s full life cycle.
Key features of the refurbishment include a new Booth Street entrance with planters creating a pocket of public realm, enhanced health and wellbeing amenities such as a communal roof terrace with a pavilion overlooking Manchester Town Hall, a fully fitted gym, a multi-purpose exercise studio, and a business lounge. The building also incorporates a ‘Smart Spaces’ platform to provide a seamless digital experience.
The efficient floorplates in Aviary offer a full CAT A finish with exposed services, providing sustainable office space over seven floors, with sizes ranging from 13,347 sq ft to 103,390 sq ft.
Jamie Hills, Development Director at Ask Real Estate, commented:
“We are thrilled to see Aviary reach practical completion. This project exemplifies our commitment to delivering sustainable and innovative office spaces that cater to the evolving needs of businesses. Aviary sets a new standard for office refurbishments in Manchester city centre, and we are excited to welcome occupiers to this exceptional workspace.”
Joint letting agents on Aviary are CBRE and Sixteen Real Estate.
Matt Shufflebottom, Director, Office Agency at CBRE, said; “To have over 100,000 sq ft of Grade A space of this calibre landing in Manchester’s central business district is very welcome news for the supply-constrained office market. The attention to sustainability and tech within the building will appeal to occupiers seeking best in class space in the city centre.”
