x+why at 100 Embankment, Manchester

Client: x+why

100 Embankment is a new build office set above Greengate Square, between Salford and Manchester’s Medieval Quarter. JRA worked with x+why in partnership with Salford City Council (SCC), creating a fit out across three floors to reflect their ambition and shared values. x+why at Embankment is more than an office, it is a home for Business as a Force for Good in the northwest, with a growing cultural program of events, wellbeing and social networking.

X+why’s co-working offices are spread across ground, mezzanine, first and second floor of the eight-storey building. The team created a spacious, welcoming reception as a hub from which workspaces branch off for different modes of working. The offering includes booths, quiet spaces, open plan desks and meeting rooms. These areas are complemented by ample break out zones to prepare food, relax, and build community. All areas are filled with abundant natural plants and a material palette to energise and inspire users. The teams collaborated with local illustrator Barney Ibbotson on original murals portraying the history and values of Salford. To further reflect Manchester’s rich talent, all artwork across the project came from local creatives.

The jewel in the crown of the building is the spacious terrace shared by all tenants. The team activated the space by creating a flexible layout with numerous furniture setups for both working and leisure, framed by biodiverse planting. It will support building users’ wellbeing and can be used for events with a catering kitchen in the back area.

The fit out was completed on a tight budget and timeframe, turned around in just six months, without forgoing design flair or attention to detail. The team also achieved best in class sustainability. The team is targeting SKA Gold for the fit out.