Koba has embarked on an ambitious project aimed at transforming 100 Barbirolli Square in Manchester city centre into a cutting-edge sustainable workspace. Slated to welcome its first tenants by October, this venture is a partnership between Koba and investor Cast Interiors. The goal? To create one of the most sustainable workspaces globally.
At its core, this initiative emphasises sustainability and innovative use of space. Every day, UK landfills are filled with 300 tons of office furniture, a problem Koba aims to mitigate by using sustainable materials. The project also includes a transformed ground floor that was once a car park, showcasing inventive utilisation of space in a building already housing prominent law firms.
Flexible Workspace in Manchester City Centre
Flexible workspace provider Koba has embarked on its inaugural project at 100 Barbirolli Square in Manchester city centre. This venture is set to welcome its first tenants by October. The project is a collaboration between Koba and investor Cast Interiors, with an ambitious goal of creating one of the most sustainable workspaces globally. “We’re creating a flexible space for anyone who wants to be in a premium sustainable workspace,” said managing director Paul Nellist.
Sustainability at the Core
A standout feature of Koba’s initiative is its emphasis on sustainability. Every day, 300 tons of office furniture are discarded into UK landfills. Koba aims to change this by using sustainable materials for the fit-out. Rob Stewart, Koba’s Strategy and Sustainability Director, highlighted their mission, stating, “We set about ensuring that our sustainability manifesto at Koba promotes a circular economy where products never actually become waste.”
Innovative Use of Space
The 30,000 sq ft location at 100 Barbirolli Square, including a transformed ground floor that was previously a car park, exemplifies innovative use of space. The building already houses prominent law firms, Brabners and Freeths. The choice of Manchester for this venture isn’t random; the city boasts a robust office market and excellent local infrastructure, making it an ideal location for Koba’s first project.
Leadership and Experience
Paul Nellist brings a wealth of experience to Koba, having previously led CBRE Hana, where he expanded the team to 32 members and operated out of five locations in London and Manchester. His leadership is complemented by other key figures, such as Zoe Moss from Cast and housebuilder Shropshire Homes owner, Howard Thorn. This strong leadership team is backed by Cast and other private investors.
Promoting Social Mobility
In a significant move to bolster its progressive credentials, Koba has partnered with the social mobility charity, IntoUniversity. This collaboration aims to create opportunities for young people facing disadvantages, allowing them to reach their full potential. They have co-designed a development programme to connect these young individuals with businesses that will operate from 100 Barbirolli Square later this year.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Koba’s project at 100 Barbirolli Square could set a new benchmark for sustainable workspaces. If successful, it might inspire other companies to adopt similar sustainability practices. With its strong leadership and commitment to social mobility, Koba is positioned to make a significant impact in the workspace sector.
Strategic Location Benefits
Manchester’s established office market and infrastructure play a crucial role in the project’s potential success. The city’s connectivity and vibrant business environment are expected to attract various tenants, further cementing Koba’s position in the market. Other companies within the building and surrounding areas are anticipated to benefit from Koba’s sustainable approach.
Circular Economy Approach
Koba’s commitment to a circular economy means that products used in their workspace design are intended to avoid waste and remain useful. This approach not only benefits the environment but also promotes a culture of sustainability within the business community. By focusing on materials that can be reused and recycled, Koba aims to minimise its ecological footprint.
Enhanced Work Environment
Creating a sustainable workspace is not just about materials but also about providing a quality environment for tenants. Koba’s design is expected to offer a premium experience with flexibility and sustainability at its core. The innovative use of space and sustainable features are geared towards enhancing the overall work environment, making it attractive for future tenants.
Support from Private Investors
The backing from Cast and other private investors underscores the confidence in Koba’s vision and leadership. This financial support is crucial for bringing their sustainable workspace to fruition. As the project progresses, it will be interesting to see how Koba leverages this support to achieve its sustainability goals and attract tenants.
Koba’s endeavour at 100 Barbirolli Square signals a progressive step in the workspace sector. By focusing on sustainability, social mobility, and innovative design, this project is poised to set new benchmarks. Their strong leadership and strategic partnerships further bolster the initiative’s ambitious goals.