Designed by Buttress Architects, The Limes will relocate an existing facility and bring together the University’s Catering Central Processing Unit, Environmental Services Unit, Facilities Management Unit and Residences Team into a purpose-built, efficient new space. The new facility will accommodate catering services, staff accommodation, workshops, and storage, with adaptable spaces to meet the evolving needs of a modern university.
With a focus on functionality and visual identity, the building’s design embraces an artistic utilitarian approach, incorporating prominent horizontal and vertical lines with bold accent colours. Welfare facilities and support accommodation have been prioritised to ensure a forward-thinking environment for all users.
Zero carbon and sustainability are central to the design, ensuring the building is future-proofed to support the long-term functionality of catering, maintenance, and environmental services. A graded zoning system will allow for separate environmental controls to meet the distinct needs of each department.
Matthew Burl, Buttress director, said:
“The scheme consolidates existing infrastructure, delivering a highly practical and efficient solution that integrates carefully into the Fallowfield Campus. The bold, functional design ensures the facility will support the University’s operational needs well into the future.”
Dr. Simon Merrywest, Director for the Student Experience, The University of Manchester, said:
“This is an important scheme for the University, replacing outdated facilities with an integrated, modern and flexible space which will support the running of the Fallowfield residential campus and our wider catering offer. Crucially, its completion will also enable the development of an exciting new student activities and social hub heart right in the heart of this site.”
The scheme also prioritises safe and secure pedestrian and vehicular access, with Chancellor’s Way serving as the primary approach, highlighting the building’s striking external staircase and entrance features. This ensures a seamless connection to the broader campus infrastructure while providing a distinctive visual anchor within the university estate.
Matthew Burl
Matthew is an architect and director at Buttress who has led the successful design and delivery of new build and refurbishment projects across a range of cultural, academic and community-led sectors, both regionally and internationally.
He also coordinates the practice's sustainability activities and has led Buttress' B Corp journey helping the company achieve certification at the end of 2022.
Shaadi Karimi
Shaadi is a creative architect with exceptional vision matched by commercial experience.