Member Article

Local history inspires Altrincham business centre refurbishment

An open day will reveal the impressive makeover of an Altrincham business centre.

BizSpace’s Atlantic Business Centre, on Atlantic Street, will welcome guests on Thursday March 30th from 11am to 3pm to reveal how the former Radio Rentals factory has been lovingly restored and refurbished.

Old photos revealed how the building had boasted attractive architectural features, and centre manager Shelley O’Reilly was determined to restore these when the 83-unit centre was updated with BizSpace’s new corporate brand scheme.

The three-month project has also been an opportunity to open up some communal café space on the ground floor, creating an attractive area where customers can meet, chat, network and do business together.

“I discovered the photographs in the centre’s attic, when we were looking for a fuse box during a power cut,” Shelley said.

“I knew they’d make a fantastic starting point for the refurbishment and was really keen to bring out the building’s history.

“We’re looking forward to showing off the new-look centre at our open day, and anyone is welcome to come along for a look around and some refreshments. As well as creating a stunning open plan reception and café area, which will be available for everyone to use and enjoy, the entire three floors of both buildings have been painted and re-floored and all kitchen and toilet areas have been modernised.

“Most importantly, the space has been designed for the needs of our customers, so there are now more social spaces where people can meet or take time out from the office.”

The interior design scheme has been created by a customer at the centre, Territory Interior Design.

Director Kate Yates explained that the local area had also been an inspirational factor.

“We’ve revealed plenty of original features, such as raising suspended ceilings to reveal high windows, exposing brickwork and restoring the tiled and parquet floors in the café and reception area, which had been covered over. We’ve also re-tiled the beautiful staircases,” she said

“The industrial look and feel has been given a nod from Altrincham Market, which is a roaring success, and we’ve also worked hard to ensure the centre feels modern and is perfect for the needs of small businesses or startups in the region.”

A new flat roof has also been installed and the site’s large car park will be resurfaced in April. The walls of the centre will feature artwork and plaques highlighting the history of the area, as well as inspirational quotes to motivate business owners.

BizSpace’s commercial director, Emma Long, said the restoration and reworking of the space was already attracting plenty of interest.

“Altrincham & Sale Chamber of Commerce has already booked a networking event at our new café space for 23rd March and we’re very excited to welcome their members,” she said.

“We’ve also had enquiries already from new businesses and creative companies who love the cool, bright atmosphere and bold personality of the centre, which is now a perfect fit with our recent corporate rebrand.”

For more information call Shelley on 0161 926 3600 or visit www.bizspace.co.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Wyldfire PR .