Mecanoo appointed to create NOMA's dynamic public space
The Co-operative Group appoints public realm architect following launch of NOMA
4 April 2011The public realm development of NOMA, Manchester's new remodelled mixed use district, launched this month, will be designed by Mecanoo architecten, the specialist architecture, urban planning, landscape architecture and interior design firm.
Mecanoo, chosen to design the public realm of the new development following a procurement process led by The Co-operative Group and Manchester City Council, will ensure that NOMA becomes a city district like no other. The public realm of NOMA includes 4.5 acres of land that Mecanoo will design to complement the new district, also ensuring that the area's industrial roots and The Co-operative Group's values of community, sustainability and mutuality are incorporated.
Martyn Hulme, Managing Director, The Co-operative Estates said: "The appointment of Mecanoo is a significant milestone for NOMA. A well-crafted, ergonomic and green space will ensure that NOMA becomes a destination location and also creates a perfect environment for those living, working and relaxing in the area.
"Mecanoo's submission captured the vision we have for the area and we're confident their involvement will help ensure the £800 million project will really transform 20 acres of Manchester City Centre's heartland into a revived and thriving part of the City."
"A responsible development, NOMA will firmly position Manchester as the first choice for business in the UK, building on existing clusters of global head offices, media enterprises, professional and financial services," Mr Hulme said.
Mecanoo has more than 25 years experience working on a range of high profile developments and their associated public spaces in around the world. High profile projects include the National Heritage Museum in the Netherlands and the Wei-Wu-Ying Centre for the Arts in Taiwan, and the Library of Birmingham integrated with the Birmingham Repertory Theatre (REP), both currently under construction.
Francine Houben, Founding Architect and Creative Director, Mecanoo said: "When visiting the NOMA site we saw its potential and importance immediately. Manchester's heritage and values inspired us to reflect the long history and strong future ahead for The Co-operative Group and its unique relationship to the city of Manchester and the new district."
Mecanoo's design of NOMA's public realm will be underpinned by several factors, including the specific and unique relationship between The Co-operative Group and the City and citizens of Manchester.
Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council, said the decision to appoint Mecanoo reflected The Manchester City Council and The Co-operative Group's commitment to ensuring world class sustainable design is delivered through NOMA.
"This is a hugely important site with the potential to provide up to 15,000 jobs and act as a catalyst to further investment, thanks to The Co-operative Group's ambition and commitment to the area. NOMA is a key piece in the jigsaw of our plans for the northern part of the city centre and both the council and The Co-operative Group share a determination to ensure it is a high quality commercial district with world-class public space and the best standards in urban, sustainable design."
NOMA will feature a number of environmental and social innovations. It will generate all of its own power, with a renewable energy centre providing for all of its needs through a smart grid. It will also be integrated into the existing transport network, with tram, rail, bus and road connections all immediately adjacent to the site.
NOMA will be developed over a 10 – 15 year period with phase one of the project, The Co-operative Group's new headquarters, due for completion in September 2012.
