Island

Manchester

Located in the heart of Manchester, Island, a 100,000 sq ft workspace, has been designed with sustainability, innovation and wellbeing at its core. The net zero carbon development delivers Grade A office accommodation alongside hotel-style amenities, including an external roof terrace, a multi-use events space and premium end-of-trip facilities that foster a vibrant community for forward-thinking businesses.

EPR’s interior design balances functionality with comfort, seamlessly blurring the lines between work and play. The ground floor sets the tone for the entire building, offering a variety of spaces for work, connection and relaxation — from lounge-style seating and high bar tables to generous armchairs. At the heart of Island, the events space provides a versatile setting for work, social and wellness activities.

EPR’s design is refined yet approachable, with a material palette that combines warm, tactile finishes and clean, contemporary detailing to create a calm, comfortable and quietly confident atmosphere. Natural materials such as timber and textured fabrics complement tonal greens, terracotta accents and biophilia to enhance wellbeing and evoke a sense of warmth.

In line with HBD’s sustainability targets, the net zero carbon office is targeting an EPC A rating, BREEAM Excellent and a 5.5-star NABERS rating. Sustainability is embedded throughout, with integrated air source heat pumps, new double-glazed windows and a mixed-mode ventilation strategy significantly reducing operational and embodied carbon.

A carefully considered material palette sets a benchmark for responsible interiors, using low-impact, EPD-certified products, low-VOC paints and responsibly sourced natural finishes such as brick, stone and timber. Furniture and fittings were chosen for durability and environmental performance.

A people-first approach weaves wellbeing into every aspect of the design. Island’s rooftop terrace is a key component of its wellbeing offering. The green, open-air space connects people to both the city and to nature, while providing a place for informal connection, pause and reflection. A multifaith and mothering room supports inclusivity, while premium end-of-trip facilities — including 70 bicycle spaces, showers and accessible provisions for hand bikes - promote active travel and occupant wellbeing.

EPR’s interior design balances functionality with comfort, seamlessly blurring the lines between work and play. The ground floor sets the tone for the entire building, offering a variety of spaces for work, connection and relaxation — from lounge-style seating and high bar tables to generous armchairs. At the heart of Island, the events space provides a versatile setting for work, social and wellness activities.

EPR’s design is refined yet approachable, with a material palette that combines warm, tactile finishes and clean, contemporary detailing to create a calm, comfortable and quietly confident atmosphere. Natural materials such as timber and textured fabrics complement tonal greens, terracotta accents and biophilia to enhance wellbeing and evoke a sense of warmth.

A people-first approach weaves wellbeing into every aspect of the design. Island’s rooftop terrace is a key component of its wellbeing offering. The green, open-air space connects people to both the city and to nature, while providing a place for informal connection, pause and reflection.