Client: Vita Group
The Brief
Situated on the former BBC Site on Oxford Road, Manchester, Circle Square, Vita Living is a Build to Rent development comprising of 683 luxury apartments above two blocks of amenity and retail space.
Designed to encourage social interaction, the extensive amenities provide residents with access to bookable private dining rooms, roof-top gardens, leisure studios, chill-out lounges, co-working suites and gym facilities, all managed by Vita Living.
Having previously delivered several successful schemes for the Vita Group, a global developer of market-leading property investment brands, Hurst was commissioned by main contractor John Sisk to provide various specialist joinery elements required for numerous communal spaces throughout the development.
The Solution
Involving over 2,000 setting out hours, the project was delivered in two phases and in very challenging times.
With careful consideration given to the Vita Living brand, Hurst’s team of 5 draughtsmen worked closely with Vita and Koncept Interior Design to create numerous bespoke elements crucial to the design of the highly distinctive and contemporary interiors.
Themed private dining areas, with quality built-in kitchens with marble and Corian workspaces were manufactured and installed, in addition to furniture for the large open-plan reception, study and entertainment areas. These included reception desks, wall paneling, large feature planters, comfortable banquet seating, entertainment centers, tea points, W/C Vanity units in addition to bespoke decorative ceiling rafts.
Project Challenges
- With the initial order for the first phase of the project received in March 2020, the project team had to negotiate the restrictions of the first full lockdown. Quick to adapt, Covid secure practices were adopted, and Hurst continued to manufacture safely.
- The restrictions meant that the setting out drawings were delivered through online approval workshops. M&E workshops were also held virtually to ensure all services integrated smoothly.
- Although hampered by raw material shortages and the availability of white goods, the installation was delivered efficiently and on time, to the high standards expected by the client.
Client Testimonial:
“Hurst has worked with us during what was a very challenging delivery environment over the last 18 months. By adopting a collaborative
approach, the project momentum was maintained, and we are extremely happy with the final product across both Vita Living buildings at Circle Square. We hope to continue this successful working relationship on future projects.”
Tristan Herbert, Development Director, Vita Group
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The Result
Offering more than simply a place to reside, Hurst successfully helped Vita achieve the beautiful spaces it envisaged as well as a new vision for sociable and inclusive community living within Manchester City centre.
