OMA selected to build the factory arts complex in manchester

OMA selected to build the factory arts complex in manchester
image © OMA / courtesy of the factory manchester

rem koolhaas’ renowned dutch studio OMA has been selected ahead of a strong shortlist to complete a new arts complex in manchester, england. named ‘the factory’, the scheme will be OMA’s first major public building in the united kingdom. in winning the contest, koolhaas saw off competition from a list of big names, including zaha hadid, diller scofidio + renfro, and rafael viñoly. a total of 48 applications were originally received for the project.

the design will establish a creative village within the city center
image © OMA / courtesy of the factory manchester

the £110 million ($166 million USD) complex will be located at the former site of the granada TV studios, establishing a creative village within the city center. the arena is set to host the manchester international festival (MIF), and will accommodate 2,200 seated observers or 5,000 standing guests. manchester city council explains the project as follows: ‘unique and wholly different to the range of arts venues currently in the city, the factory will be a major center for the north, able to commission original works, working in partnership with leading national and international organizations to deliver major events throughout the year – along with being a permanent home to the manchester international festival (MIF).’

subject to planning approval, construction is planned to start in 2016, with a targeted opening date of summer 2019.

the project will accommodate 2,200 seated observers or 5,000 standing guests
image © OMA / courtesy of the factory manchester

construction is planned to start in 2016, with a targeted opening date of summer 2019
image © OMA / courtesy of the factory manchester