Manchester, UK

Universal Square comprises the redevelopment of a 1960's office block, within which is a new landscaped courtyard. The design imports slivers of peak district landscape into central Manchester. Strips of native Scots Pine and bracken float into the courtyard and are edged with long seat walls. A water feature sits just outside the cafe and pulls the reflected sky down into the space. It is a space to quietly enjoy from within as well as to look out on.  The courtyard has been heralded as a benchmark for urban landscape design in Manchester.

John McAslan + Partners Project