Virgin Media O2's Manchester HQ demonstrates the impact of people-centred workplace design

Virgin Media O2’s new Manchester HQ, 7th Floor Accidental Meeting Point

What defines workplace success after move-in?

For many organisations, the true measure of a workplace project comes after occupation, when employees begin using the space and the business starts to experience the impact of its investment.

At Virgin Media O2's new North West headquarters at Island, Manchester, that impact is already being realised.

Designed by SpaceInvader, the 50,000 sq ft workplace brings together collaboration, wellbeing, accessibility and flexibility across five connected floors. Developed through extensive engagement with colleagues and inspired by the culture and character of Manchester, the project was created to support the evolving needs of a modern workforce while delivering an exceptional employee experience.

Importantly, the success of the project is not only evident in the design itself but in how people are using the space. Just months after occupation, the workplace has already achieved a significant uplift in attendance, demonstrating the value of creating environments that employees actively want to use.

As organisations continue to refine their hybrid working strategies, workplace design plays an increasingly important role in encouraging collaboration, supporting wellbeing and fostering a strong sense of community.

For Virgin Media O2, this meant creating a workplace that balanced operational performance with employee experience. The design provides a variety of settings to support different work styles, helping colleagues connect, collaborate and perform at their best while maintaining flexibility and choice.

The project has also achieved both WELL Platinum and BREEAM Outstanding certifications, reflecting a commitment to wellbeing, sustainability and long-term workplace performance.

A strong sense of place was central to the design approach.

Drawing inspiration from Manchester's rich culture, heritage and energy, the workplace creates a distinctive identity that connects employees to both the organisation and the city it calls home. The result is a destination workplace that supports business objectives while creating meaningful experiences for the people who use it every day.

At SpaceInvader, we believe successful workplace design should do more than provide functional space. It should support people, strengthen culture and create lasting value for organisations and their teams.

Project Team

Client: Virgin Media O2

Project Team: Overbury | CBRE | Turner & Townsend | BDP