WML are celebrating the success of Hilton House, which is to be featured in the IStructE Structural Awards 2020.
WML undertook initial building inspections, desk and feasibility studies. The project comprised demolition and re-provision of extended upper storeys realising c8000 sqft of modern open plan office floor space.
Original archive information unearthed at the Central Library in Manchester, along with a building topographical survey and site inspection, provided the basis of the initial assessment and structural options.
It was a client and architectural aspiration to keep structural interventions to a minimum and to expose the existing structure wherever possible – to celebrate the buildings past and incorporate it into its future.
The hollow pot floor soffits were proposed to be on show in the new offices.By balancing the demolition of heavier structure with the provision of lighter new structure, the upper floors could be extended out without the need for costly structural alterations throughout the building.
The existing tiered arrangement was achieved with transfer beams. The required demolition would leave some tricky new support arrangements and justification of existing structure to work in new ways.
The works were completed in early 2020, giving the building a new lease of life and providing Manchester with new, inspirational office space.
