The Manchester International Festival is the world’s first festival of original, new work and special events. This biennial event takes place all over the city, at multiple venues with the focal point being at Albert Square in the heart city.
The Vision
Worldwide Structures Ltd have been appointed since 2011, by the festival organisers to supply the “Glass House” structure in Albert Square. The “Glass House” is the main structure within the Square. As the Festival expanded so did the aspirations of the organisers, we always change the layout and configuration of the structure to meet the client’s needs.
The System
In 2017 we delivered a 7.5M x 17.5M “L” shaped single storey flat roof structure using our SPACE building system®, an impressive space for both clients and visitors.
Our unique flat roof system allowed for the entire roof area to be used as a roof terrace giving a commanding view over the Square.
The structure itself was divided, allowing dedicated areas for public hospitality, concessions, and corporate space for VIP hosting/private functions.
A last-minute addition to the 2017 structure was an integral outside broadcast studio for BBC local radio to broadcast from during the event.
Worldwide Structures Ltd Delivered
• A sophisticated looking building, achieved using architectural glass, which was easily sub-divided to provide dedicated areas for various activities/functions.
• A complex building configuration built to tight deadlines in a limited space with restricted access. The site itself provided its own challenges, with street furniture, trees and a cobbled surface adding to the build complexity, all these challenges have been overcome year after year.
• Plans are already in place for 2019, our fourth time at the Manchester International Festival.