Orbit - King Street | Opus4 | Office Design & Office Fit Out

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Orbit – King Street

Reception and Communal Areas

Client

Orbit – King Street

Location

Manchester

Project Duration

5 weeks

Project Size

1,000 sqft

Sector

Landlord / Investor

Project Background and Objectives

Orbit Developments brought in Opus 4 to refurbish the main reception at 55 King Street, a well-known office building right in the centre of Manchester. The site offers six floors of office space and is home to several businesses, so the reception needed to feel modern, smart and welcoming.

The aim was to deliver a high-quality finish that reflected the building’s location and status, without causing disruption to the daily routine of staff or visitors.

Solutions and Approach

We worked from the original design by Simpson Haugh Architects and collaborated closely with the Orbit team to bring the concept to life. The schedule was phased to keep the reception open and safe throughout the works, making adjustments each day as needed to allow for tenant access.

Our team installed bespoke materials including illuminated glass wall panels and a custom-built desk, two of the key features that now define the space.

Challenges and Solutions

Live building environment: The reception is the only access route to all six floors, and a staff member required the lifts to remain available at all times.

We made sure access was never interrupted, adjusting working areas and barriers daily to keep everything running smoothly.

City centre logistics: Deliveries and waste removal had to be carefully planned due to the busy location.

We worked closely with building management, arranging deliveries out of peak times and coordinating with nearby businesses to avoid disruption.

Results and Benefits

The new reception is now brighter, more professional and creates a much stronger first impression. The glass panels add a bold, visual impact as soon as you enter, while the reception desk is both functional and inviting.

The work was completed on time within the five-week programme, with full access maintained from start to finish.

Designer’s Comment

“This was quite a high-profile site in a busy part of the city, so finding the right balance between looks and practicality was important. The illuminated glass panels make a big statement as soon as you walk in, and the desk helps soften the space and makes it feel more approachable. It just goes to show how thoughtful design, and a few strong features can really lift a space that people walk through every day.”

Key Takeaways

Working in live buildings is very manageable with careful planning and regular communication
Accessibility can’t be an afterthought; it has to shape how a project is delivered
A clean, modern reception can completely change how a building is experienced