We began working early on with our client, Skanska, in order to maximise our impact on the job and to create a focused project team. The interchange needed to accommodate multi-modal transport links and to create a natural, logical flow of passengers and a meeting point for two of the airports ‘skylinks'.

As part of that flow, it had to feel ‘branded', like a continuation of the airport so we worked hard to maintain those visual connections and to integrate the new build as closely as possible. Sustainable features were vital - this building functions as a benchmark project for Manchester Airport for all future design and development.

Brises-soleil restricts the impact of direct sunlight and reflective panels allow just 3% of heat in - enough to keep warm and negate the usual requirement for air conditioning. Rain water is harvested and recycled. The solution has achieved the client's target of an ‘excellent' BREEAM rating.

The site also includes a six-storey office complex which is used by carriers and airport departments.