Cross Keys

High quality architectural designto drive sustainable residential growth in Manchester's Northern Gateway

TGA Cross Keys St View1 New Lighting Final TGA Edit
Type of project
Residential
Project Partners
CERT Property
Tim Groom Architects
Layer Studio
Location
New Cross, Manchester
Year
2023
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New Cross Transformation

The proposed development at Cross Keys, New Cross, presents a unique opportunity to contribute to Manchester's evolving urban landscape. Featuring a thoughtfully designed part 8-, part 9-storey building with 99 residential units, the project integrates contemporary architectural elements with the area's historical context. With communal spaces like a landscaped courtyard and a rooftop terrace, the development fosters a modern, community-focused living environment that aligns with the needs of urban residents.

Strategically located in the emerging New Cross area, just outside Manchester's city centre, the development benefits from excellent public transport connections, making it an ideal choice for young professionals and families. The car-free design further promotes sustainable living, encouraging residents to adopt eco-friendly transportation options. Through its blend of innovative design and strategic positioning, the Cross Keys development plays a crucial role in the ongoing regeneration of this vibrant part of Manchester.

We engaged proactively with the local planning authority through a pre-application enquiry, expertly collating fee quotes and appointing a diverse team of co-consultants to provide essential advice, reports, and surveys. Our planning project management ensured seamless coordination through to the successful submission of the planning application. 

Additionally, we delivered a comprehensive suite of pre-planning cost services, including creating a detailed budget, carefully evaluating the different frame and façade options, and advancing cost planning through to Stage 2.  Showing the benefits of early cost engagement, we have carefully led the design of the project and considered the onsite delivery options / constraints ensuring they were fully factored in from the outset mitigating potential planning amendments next stage.  

Separately we engaged trusted subcontractors and suppliers and optioneered the different ideas put forward during the design team meetings showing Cert the cost v benefit of each option.  We also provided a comprehensive viability cost plan with a detailed options exercise featuring three distinct options for the client to evaluate.

Its all in the detail ...

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Architectural
highlights.

Through thoughtful integration of historical and modern design elements, the facade has been expertly crafted to reflect both the area's rich architectural heritage and contemporary aspirations. Active chamfered corners add interest and address street junctions effectively, while a well-defined hierarchy with a distinct top, middle, and base enhances the building’s presence. The rhythmic facade, inspired by early 20th-century warehouse architecture, connects seamlessly with the local context. Ground floor frontages ensure prominence and protection, and the varied roofscape builds on the diverse architectural identity of the area. The use of precast pigmented concrete and light grey brickwork, complemented by bronze accents and sawtooth detailing, creates a cohesive and textured design that is both innovative and respectful of the surrounding vernacular.

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