A basic plan form was developed which utilised the existing stairways, conveniently sited to provide the vertical escape provision. The stairways are linked by internal streets on three levels within two lightwells, one of which is based on a remodelled existing arcade retained from the Affleck & Brown days – both the trusses and columns which support the lightwell roof are as originally found. The lightwell functions as a winter (and summer) garden, providing the means by which passive smoke extraction of the common spaces is achieved. It also creates a habitable room at the rear of the apartment spaces, enabling apartment interiors to be fully exploited and dual aspect in nature. The lightwell also serves as the means by which services are distributed.
smithfield buildings
team
Client
urban splash
Structural Engineer
Eric Bassett Associates
Quantity Surveyor
Simon Fenton Partnership
Main Contractor
Urban Splash
Services
John Troughear Associates
awards
Housing Design Awards 2008
historic award
Civic Trust Awards 2000
Civic Trust Partnership Awards 2000
national home builder design awards commended best restoration and conversion of existing building 1999
MSA Design Awards 1998
commendation
RIBA awards 1998
Housing Design Awards 1998
recognition of excellence
manchester civic society design award 1998
1998 victorian city
Housing Design Awards 1997
award in recognition of potential excellence