Renaissance, Manchester

Outdated hotel given new lease of life alongside office and residential expansion

Though the 1970’s isn’t that far back in history, buildings that were developed in that time period and haven’t been updated since are no longer fit for purpose.

Such is the case for the former Renaissance Hotel, situated on Deansgate, Manchester. US-based investor Starwood bought the site in a joint venture with Property Alliance Group early in 2021 and immediately issued planning permission to refurbish the property and transform it into a hub of modern commercial, leisure and residential outlets.

Many opposed the request to refurbish rather than demolish the building, commenting that it was an eyesore, but the JV argued that updating the premises would achieve a more sustainable approach to the site’s redevelopment.

Property Alliance Group is overseeing all four developments alongside two architectural practices – Jon Matthews Architects, who’ve designed the workspace, residential site and car park, and Synergy Architects, who’re responsible for the design and delivery of the hotel.

The 216-bedroom hotel, which will relaunch under SH Hotels and Resorts’ Treehouse brand, is only the second of its kind in the UK. It will receive a roof extension to expand its capacity, while part of the existing car park will be demolished to make way for the new 26-storey residential site. The remaining part of the car park space beneath the hotel and 40,000 sq ft of office space will receive a major upgrade.

Sweco was appointed to the project in June 2021 and is responsible for delivering complete building control and implementing a fire safety strategy across all four schemes, working alongside fire engineers, Design Fire Consultants, and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.