One Victoria – High-Rise Residential Façade Package

high-spec aluminium façade, overcoming complex geometry and acoustic challenges on a high-rise residential project in Manchester

Project Details
TL;DR:

One Victoria Manchester – Residential Development

Advanced Glass delivered a high-spec façade package for a landmark residential development at One Victoria, Manchester, working for Torsion Construction Ltd.

The project comprised natural anodised aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling, bespoke cladding, Juliet balconies, and full-height bespoke aluminium barrier systems.

Located opposite the AO Arena, the development was subject to exceptionally high acoustic performance requirements, alongside strict thermal targets, with windows required to achieve a U-value of 1.2 W/m²K and acoustic performance of 42 dB plus Ctr.

A key design challenge involved complex Z-shaped window geometries with minimal returns, resolved through an innovative bespoke cladded and insulated coupling solution that enhanced both thermal and acoustic performance.

Despite programme pressures, restricted site access, and coordination challenges with adjacent packages, Advanced Glass delivered the façade works efficiently across a 1 year and 6 month programme. The project team received strong feedback from the main contractor, who recognised Advanced Glass as one of the best-performing subcontractors on site.

Planning a similar project? Get in touch with Advanced Glass today to discuss your bespoke glazing needs.

DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT

One Victoria is a high-rise, high-spec residential development located in central Manchester.

Positioned adjacent to the Manchester Victoria rail line and directly opposite the AO Arena, the project demanded a façade solution capable of delivering outstanding acoustic performance alongside high-quality architectural finishes.

Advanced Glass was appointed by Torsion Construction Ltd to design, supply, and install a complete aluminium façade package, contributing to the building’s visual identity and long-term performance.

Scope of Works

Advanced Glass delivered a comprehensive façade package including:

  • Natural anodised aluminium windows, doors, and curtain walling
  • Bespoke cladding elements
  • Juliet balconies
  • Full-height bespoke aluminium barrier systems

The window systems were based on Technal SOLEAL NEXT SZ75 tilt and turn profiles, selected to meet the project’s demanding performance criteria and architectural intent.

Design and Technical Challenges

One of the principal challenges was the façade geometry, with Z-shaped window layouts where returns were too small to fabricate using standard window profiles. To resolve this, Advanced Glass developed an innovative bespoke coupling solution incorporating cladded and fully insulated returns. This approach reduced overall U-values while maximising acoustic performance.

Additional challenges included complex interfaces between bespoke soffit cladding incorporating ventilation slots and the extraction systems. These were resolved through thorough design development and accurate installation on site.

 

Installation and Programme

The project was delivered over approximately 18 months, with installation sequenced at a rate of two weeks per floor. Site access was highly constrained, requiring a combination of scaffolding, mast climbers, cantilevered mast climbers, and MEWPs, alongside just-in-time deliveries due to the lack of laydown space.

At peak periods, up to 12 Advanced Glass operatives were working on site. Health and safety planning was critical due to the project’s proximity to live railway infrastructure.

Performance and Outcome

The façade achieved all required thermal and acoustic performance standards, including a window U-value of 1.2 W/m²K and acoustic performance of 42 dB plus Ctr. Despite delays caused by other packages, the façade installation progressed smoothly due to Advanced Glass’s proactive design and delivery approach.

Feedback from the project team was highly positive, with the main contractor praising Advanced Glass for its proactive working methods, fast design turnaround, and overall performance on site.

What next?

From luxury restaurants to hotels, city centre offices, heritage buildings, and rural schools, Advanced Glass delivers tailored curtain walling and glazing solutions to meet the demanding performance and aesthetic needs of our clients and their customers.

To discuss this project or to discover how we can help you, please contact one of our experienced team members today by calling 01455 856028, or [click here] to send us a message.

high-spec aluminium façade, overcoming complex geometry and acoustic challenges on a high-rise residential project in Manchester