House of Social

Project Overview

Client: House of Social
Location: Manchester, UK
Sector: Hospitality & Commercial
Completion: 2024
Scope: Design, fabrication, and installation of bespoke metal façade and glazing system

Introduction

In the centre of Manchester’s ever-evolving First Street district, House of Social has become a striking architectural statement — a new social and hospitality hub where industrial heritage meets modern design.

Modern Facade Solutions was commissioned to deliver the external façade package for this landmark project, combining traditional red brick with a bespoke bronze-toned metal cladding and glazing system. The result is a façade that blends seamlessly with the area’s rich architectural context while asserting a contemporary identity of its own.

This project showcases how a façade can do more than just protect a building — it can communicate character, atmosphere, and purpose.

Design Vision

The design brief called for a modern architectural façade that reflected Manchester’s creative and social spirit. The building needed to feel grounded in its industrial setting while projecting a bold, inviting presence suitable for a hospitality-led development.

Large arched glazing panels, precision-engineered bronze fins, and textured vertical detailing became the visual signature of House of Social. These elements create rhythm and balance, adding depth and contrast to the red brick backdrop.

The façade was designed not only as a visual feature but as a storytelling device — one that connects past and present through form, proportion, and materiality.

Our Role

Modern Facade Solutions worked closely with the project’s architects and main contractor to deliver the complete façade engineering, fabrication, and installation package. Our role covered:

• Detailed design and 3D modelling of the façade interface
• Fabrication of bespoke aluminium cladding panels and bronze-toned fins
• Supply and installation of full-height arched glazing systems
• Coordination of all external envelope works, including weatherproofing and integration with brickwork elements

By combining precision manufacturing with on-site expertise, our team ensured the façade performed as beautifully as it looked.

Materiality and Detailing

A key challenge was achieving the rich, bronze architectural tone seen across the building’s frontage. After extensive finish testing, we developed a custom powder-coated aluminium system that delivered a deep metallic warmth while maintaining durability and UV stability.

The façade features:

• Vertical fins and louvres adding depth and shade variation
• Arched window heads echoing the industrial warehouse aesthetic
• Slimline glazing frames to maximise light and maintain clean lines

Each elevation was modelled in BIM to ensure precise alignment with the brickwork and recessed detailing. The result is a façade that feels integrated — not applied — enhancing the architectural unity of the overall design.

Engineering and Performance

Behind its elegant form lies a robust engineering solution. Modern Facade Solutions designed a fully drained and ventilated façade system that ensures long-term performance in all weather conditions.

Key performance highlights:

• Thermally broken aluminium framing to improve energy efficiency
• Integrated ventilation louvres to maintain airflow
• Fully weather-sealed glazing achieving exceptional airtightness
• High corrosion resistance through pre-anodised substrate and powder coating

The result is a façade that not only meets but exceeds industry standards for durability and sustainability — essential in a demanding urban environment.

Installation and Coordination

Located on a tight city-centre site, House of Social required careful planning and sequencing. Our installation strategy was developed around efficiency and minimal disruption.

Pre-fabricated façade units were manufactured off-site and delivered in coordinated phases, allowing rapid installation with minimal scaffolding. This approach ensured:

• Shorter installation timelines
• Reduced on-site waste
• Minimal disruption to surrounding businesses

Throughout construction, our site teams maintained a strong focus on health and safety, achieving a zero-incident record while delivering the façade ahead of programme.

A Visual Landmark

The completed building stands as a perfect balance between industrial heritage and modern elegance. The bronze fins and arches catch the changing light throughout the day, creating a façade that shifts in tone and texture — from warm and inviting at sunrise to sophisticated and reflective by evening.

Street-level design elements, including outdoor seating and large-format glazing, promote visibility and connection with the surrounding public realm. The result is a vibrant, accessible space that invites people in — exactly as the name House of Social suggests.

Sustainability and Longevity

Sustainability played a central role in the façade specification. All aluminium components were fabricated using recycled content, with finishes designed for long-term performance and easy maintenance.

Key sustainability outcomes:

• Fully recyclable materials with a low embodied carbon footprint
• Enhanced thermal efficiency reducing operational energy use
• Durable powder coatings eliminating the need for repainting
• Modular design allowing easy future replacement or upgrade

By integrating these principles early in design, the façade contributes meaningfully to the building’s overall environmental performance.

Results and Impact

Since completion, House of Social has drawn attention for its distinctive façade design and strong visual identity. It has quickly become a recognisable focal point in the district — and an example of how modern façade design can elevate both brand and place.

For Modern Facade Solutions, the project demonstrates our expertise in architectural façades for hospitality, commercial, and mixed-use buildings, as well as our ability to collaborate seamlessly with architects and contractors to achieve exceptional results.

Key Project Stats

Modern Facade Solutions
Façade Engineering | Metal Cladding | Architectural Glazing
www.modernfacadesolutions.co.uk