Perfectly situated in the heart of Central Manchester, Rylands bridges the central business district and the thriving Northern Quarter, offering an unparalleled location for retail, culture, and commerce. We are proud to deliver a comprehensive MEP package, ensuring the building meets the highest standards of functionality and sustainability.
This transformative project will enhance connectivity, provide versatile spaces, and create a holistic destination in the heart of Manchester. Stay tuned for updates as we bring this historic landmark into the future
The Rylands Manchester redevelopment is a major city-centre transformation of the historic Grade II listed Rylands Building, originally completed in 1932 and most recently home to the Debenhams department store. Spanning around 500,000 sq ft of commercial space across ten floors, the project will sensitively restore the building’s heritage features while delivering state-of-the-art office, retail and leisure environments in a pivotal Manchester location between the central business district and the Northern Quarter. This mixed-use scheme also includes a four-storey rooftop extension adding approximately 40,000 sq ft of premium workspace, with completion anticipated in Spring 2027.
Matic’s commercial MEP delivery supports the building’s transformation into a flexible, future-ready commercial destination. Our works enable comfortable, energy-efficient workplaces and public amenities through engineered heating, ventilation, cooling, power distribution, life safety systems, and intelligent building controls tailored to the varied needs of office, retail and leisure occupiers. The project’s design embraces sustainability with a focus on natural daylighting, high-performance facades, and low-carbon plant solutions that complement the wider refurbishment goals.
Situated on Market Street with excellent connectivity to Manchester’s transport hubs and cultural districts, Rylands will provide an exceptional commercial hub that balances heritage character with modern performance. Matic’s role is integral to delivering reliable, resilient MEP infrastructure that meets the demands of contemporary commercial spaces while enhancing occupant comfort, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability.
Our mechanical and public health scope includes above-ground drainage and rainwater systems, domestic cold and hot water services, sanitaryware installations, booster sets and water storage, thermal stores, ventilation systems, and full smoke ventilation infrastructure. HVAC works comprise air handling units, MVHR systems, mechanical extract and supply ductwork, smoke extract systems with dampers and controls, and associated insulation throughout plantrooms, risers and ceiling voids. All systems are fully tested, commissioned and certified in line with statutory requirements and project specifications.
The electrical installation includes incoming supplies, LV switchgear, busbar systems, sub-main cabling, containment, lighting, emergency lighting, small power, and a comprehensive life-safety infrastructure. This is supported by fire detection and alarm systems, PAVA (where required), access control, CCTV, data, and security systems, all integrated through a central Building Management System (BMS). Standby power resilience is provided via a dedicated generator and automatic transfer systems, ensuring continuity of essential services and compliance with life-safety requirements in a complex, high-profile commercial environment
