UK: Developer Downing, in partnership with OEP UK, has completed the fittings for the Square Gardens coliving development in Manchester.
Located in the new First Street neighbourhood, Square Gardens comprises three-to-five-bedroom co-living apartments, studios and one-bedroom apartments. Square Gardens will offer more than 1,700 homes across the Acer Tower and The Fernley (opening spring 2025).
Amenities at Square Gardens include a gym and wellness centre, social lounges, coworking spaces, super-fast Wi-Fi, a 24/7 onsite management team and the largest private outdoor gardens and terraces.
OEP UK worked alongside Downing’s design team to refine the layouts and specifications for 14 unique pod types, including accessible units, whilst ensuring the project was delivered on time. With all the pods now delivered, the company is in the final stages of installing the remaining bedroom sets.
OEP UK fitted 435 floorless bathroom pods and 1,786-bedroom furniture sets, reflecting a major milestone for the company.
Ian Orton, director at Downing, said: “Key to our brief was not only a product that looked great but one that could withstand the demands of a high-impact environment. The team at OEP certainly delivered. Their work on incorporating M&E access hatches for easier future maintenance was invaluable. Another successful project with OEP under our belt, and we look forward to working together on many more.”
With construction having started in January 2022 and topping out achieved in December 2023, For the £400m Square Gardens development has been created using a vertically integrated approach, with development, construction and ongoing management all being delivered by Downing.
The scheme was designed by architects SimpsonHaugh, with KKA leading on the interior design.
