ABC IS A VIBRANT MIX OF BUSINESSES AND AMENITIES WITHIN A UNIQUE CLUSTER OF THREE 1960S BUILDINGS LOCATED IN THE NEW ST. JOHN’S DISTRICT OF MANCHESTER.

The development of the former offices began in 2017 and looked to introduce retail and leisure use at ground level, refurbish the upper floors as offices, whilst adding new build pavilion structures to the top of each building. The Allied London design studio were involved in the ABC Buildings from the conception of the project, leading on the architectural concept design through the planning process, developing the base build interior concepts and ultimately carrying out the fit-outs and full marketing of the key spaces within the development.

The design, identity and marketing strategy have taken inspiration from the 1960s geometry, palette and spirit of the existing buildings. The Sixties was the decade in which design definitively established itself as a force, it was all about fresh ways of thinking and unbelievable creativity. From geometric shapes to neo-organic, psychedelic styles, it was a period defined by experimentation, new materials, and alternative ways of visualising. This Sixties spirit has been captured in the brand identity of the development and carried through to underpin the marketing and promotion of the ABC Buildings.

We have taken the essence of the era and reinterpreted the design themes in a contemporary way, to create a unique workspace location. With its rhythmic concrete facades and geometric forms the existing buildings have been both enhanced and celebrated.

Two new receptions have been created, utilising terrazzo floors, teak wall cladding, feature lighting and sign boards, all meticulously detailed to create a modern gateway for the development. The spirit of the Sixties expands throughout the whole workspace, creating a timeless way of working, inspiring growth from an age that was truly revolutionary.