Viadux – Phases One and Two

Viadux brings new life to a historic corner of Manchester, pairing contemporary high-rise living with the character of the Grade II listed Castlefield Viaduct.

Conceived by Salboy, designed by SimpsonHaugh and built by Domis, Viadux sits at one of Manchester’s busiest crossroads, where the Civic Quarter, Deansgate, Deansgate Locks and the Oxford Road Corridor all meet.

Blending innovation, heritage and scale

We were appointed to deliver the building services engineering, sustainability consultancy and lighting design for both phases. The brief was clear but challenging: make modern systems work quietly in a new tower while respecting the Victorian viaduct beneath it.

Phase One – a 139 metre residential tower – brought the usual high-rise challenges, especially around cold-water systems and fire safety. We created separate pressure zones for the lower and upper floors to keep the building safe and comfortable from ground to top.

Under the tower, part of the listed Castlefield Viaduct now hosts a pool, jacuzzi, sauna and gym. We threaded services through the arches carefully, using lighting to highlight the brickwork without overpowering it.

Phase Two raises the ambition further: a 76-storey mixed-use tower with a Nobu restaurant, a 160-bed Nobu hotel, 452 homes and a full range of leisure spaces. We used the same zoned approach here, tailoring systems to the height and use of each space.

The site’s history shaped every decision. Across both phases, we worked around the Victorian structure, using discreet systems and gentle lighting so the viaduct’s character stays front and centre.

Precision in action

Phase One is complete, delivering 40-storeys of homes with generous shared facilities. Behind the scenes, the systems are efficient, future-ready and deliberately quiet, doing their job without getting in the way.

Phase Two is now progressing, with our MEP, sustainability and lighting strategies fully coordinated for what will become the tallest building in the UK outside London. Together, the two phases show how a complex city site can become a landmark with the right blend of care and clear thinking.

Legacy through landmark design

Viadux is reshaping Manchester’s skyline while reconnecting the city with its industrial past. It shows how old and new can sit comfortably together, supported by engineering that balances heritage with modern living.