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Harnessing the industrial heritage

Bass Warehouse stands tall in the iconic area of Castlefields, serving as a reminder of its rich history as a Victorian manufacturer of timber and packing cases. The building's architecture seamlessly blends the old and the new, with exposed timber beams and steel works creating a stunning contrast. Previously reimagined by the renowned Manchester architects Stephenson Bell, our approach was to reinterpret the building's evolution and create a contemporary workspace that celebrates the site's unique character and spirit.

We focused on using materiality to reconnect with the past when redesigning the reception, cafe, lounges, meeting rooms and amenities. To achieve this, we incorporated sawn oaks, robust architectural metal detailing, and functional tiled finishes that were present during the building's original construction. Our goal was to develop a high-end, hospitality aesthetic that enhances the building's tactile qualities and positions the workspace as an elegant environment for the demographic of architects, lawyers and professionals that reside in Bass Warehouse.

"These historic buildings have stood the test of time by evolving throughout the decades, remaining relevant to ensure their future. YOUTH has beautifully paid respect to its past while tastefully reimagining its future, ensuring the relevance within the contemporary workspace environment."