Manchester is a city where industrial heritage meets modern innovation, and architecture plays a central role in shaping its evolving skyline. From conversions of Victorian warehouses to striking new commercial buildings and bespoke residential projects, Manchester architects combine creativity with technical excellence. Below we highlight five fantastic architecture firms in Manchester, each known for delivering award-winning design solutions.
Our Top Five Manchester Architecture Firms
SimpsonHaugh
Headquarters: Manchester City Centre
Phone: +44 (0)161 832 4848
Services: High-rise residential, commercial buildings, masterplanning
SimpsonHaugh is one of Manchester’s most prominent architectural practices, behind landmark projects such as Beetham Tower and Deansgate Square. Their designs shape much of the modern city skyline.
BDP (Building Design Partnership)
Headquarters: Manchester, with offices worldwide
Phone: +44 (0)161 828 2200
Services: Healthcare, education, retail, civic architecture
Founded in Manchester in 1961, BDP is a global practice delivering large-scale and complex projects, including Manchester’s Spinningfields development and The Bridgewater Hall.
Hodder + Partners
Headquarters: Manchester
Phone: +44 (0)161 832 6699
Services: Residential, commercial, cultural, heritage projects
Hodder + Partners, led by Stephen Hodder MBE, RIBA Gold Medal winner, is known for award-winning designs that blend contemporary style with heritage sensitivity.
Sheppard Robson
Headquarters: Manchester and London
Phone: +44 (0)161 233 8900
Services: Education, offices, residential, masterplanning
Sheppard Robson is a UK-wide architectural practice with a strong Manchester base, delivering projects such as the University of Manchester’s engineering campus.
Fletcher Priest Architects
Headquarters: London with a Manchester office
Phone: +44 (0)20 7394 4000
Services: Commercial design, workplace, mixed-use developments
Fletcher Priest Architects is an award-winning practice working in Manchester and beyond, with projects that include workplace design, urban regeneration, and sustainable developments.
Areas Covered in Manchester
- Central Manchester: Deansgate, Spinningfields, Ancoats
- South Manchester: Didsbury, Chorlton, Withington
- North Manchester: Prestwich, Cheetham Hill, Crumpsall
- Greater Manchester: Salford, Stockport, Bolton, Oldham
- City Region: Trafford, Rochdale, Wigan, Bury
Architectural Services in Manchester
- Residential architecture and refurbishments
- Commercial developments and office design
- Masterplanning and urban regeneration
- Education and healthcare buildings
- Heritage and listed building restorations
- Sustainable and eco-friendly architecture
- Interior architecture and bespoke design
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire an architect in Manchester?
Architects in Manchester typically charge 7–12% of the total project cost, depending on scale and complexity.
Do Manchester architects provide free consultations?
Some firms offer free initial consultations, while others may charge for feasibility studies and site visits.
What qualifications do Manchester architects hold?
All registered architects must hold RIBA-accredited qualifications and be registered with the ARB (Architects Registration Board).
Do Manchester architects work on heritage buildings?
Yes, many specialise in restoring and repurposing listed mills, warehouses, and Victorian-era buildings.
Do architects handle planning applications?
Most firms manage planning submissions and liaise with Manchester City Council on behalf of clients.
How long does an architectural project take?
Small residential projects may take 6–9 months, while large commercial developments may take several years.
What’s the difference between an architect and a designer?
Architects are ARB-registered professionals, while designers may not hold formal accreditation but still provide design services.
Do architects in Manchester work on large-scale developments?
Yes, many Manchester-based firms specialise in masterplanning and high-rise residential or commercial projects.
What sustainability standards do Manchester architects follow?
Most leading firms design to BREEAM or LEED sustainability standards.
How do I find the best architect in Manchester?
Check ARB registration, review past projects, read client testimonials, and request detailed proposals before committing.