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

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

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.
Advanced Glass delivered a comprehensive façade package including:
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.

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.

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.

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.

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