No. 1 Deansgate, Glass residential tower in central Manchester, England
No. 1 Deansgate is a 62-meter-tall residential tower in central Manchester with a double glass skin exterior that houses 84 apartments across 14 floors, including eight penthouses. The ground floor holds retail spaces supported by steel columns, while upper levels offer residents expansive views across the city center.
The building emerged from a redevelopment initiative following the 1996 IRA bombing, replacing the Victoria Buildings that had been destroyed during World War II. This new development was part of Manchester's broader effort to rebuild its city center after decades of decline.
This tower represents Manchester's shift toward modern architecture through its steel and glass design by Ian Simpson, marking a departure from the concrete structures that once dominated the area. Its position along Deansgate shows how contemporary design reshapes the identity of established neighborhoods.
The best time to appreciate the facade and design from outside is during early morning or late afternoon when light accentuates the glass surfaces. The location is central and easily accessible by public transport, with ground-floor retail creating a natural entry point for visitors exploring the building.
The structure employs a specialized column system that transitions from close spacing in residential areas to wider intervals in the retail section. This technical feature is visible from the street and subtly shapes the appearance of the facade.
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