Industrial evolution

The industrial life of Chorlton Mill in central Manchester is evident in the interiors of the 75 apartments and eight live/work units being created by developer Space Group. Metal brackets, winding gear and transmission boxes are among the fixtures and fittings left behind by previous owners, and every interior features the cast iron columns and brick vaulted ceilings of the original structure.

"We wanted to keep as much of the original building as possible and provide a modern contrast for the industrial features," says ADC Architects' partner Mike Macpherson.

Dovetailing the old and new hasn't been easy according to Macpherson. The ad hoc changes made to Chorlton Mill over the last 200 years means that practically every apartment is different.

A particular challenge was the uneven flooring. The architect used a raised Junckers system to compensate for variations in the height of the original flooring. It also conceals services that couldn't be taken across the ceiling because of the brick vaults.

Space Group has complemented the exposed brickwork and industrial fittings with neutral colours and high-quality contemporary fixtures and fittings. "We wanted to create something that's better than anything else in Manchester. For example we've used big thick oak doors with ironmongery you can't pull off," says Roger Shoesmith, director at Space Group.

Lighting is also a high priority. "If you have a brick vaulted ceiling you're not going to have much natural light hence the extensive use of all types of lighters. It draws attention to features and adds sparkle to kitchens and bathrooms," says Macpherson.