Domis Construction has officially completed the Fusion Manchester purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) project, developed for the renowned student accommodation operator Fusion Students. This impressive development features 509 beds and introduces a design-focused living experience in one of Manchester’s most prominent city-centre locations.
Located at the gateway to Deansgate, Fusion Manchester provides students with convenient access to Manchester’s leading universities, cultural attractions, transport links, independent dining options, nightlife, and the broader urban environment. The design of the scheme transcends mere accommodation; it aims to deliver a holistic student experience that prioritises wellbeing, academic success, social interaction, and everyday convenience.
Meeting the Needs of Today’s Students
Manchester is home to tens of thousands of students, with the University of Manchester being one of the most sought-after Russell Group institutions in the country. This new scheme addresses the ongoing demand for accommodation that aligns with contemporary student lifestyles, seamlessly integrating private and shared living spaces with a robust array of amenities.
The amenities at Fusion Manchester are extensive and thoughtfully curated. They encompass a cardio suite, a wellbeing studio, a communal pantry and coffee lounge, complimentary laundry services, a gaming zone, a karaoke room, a library, three outdoor roof terraces, a private dining facility, and dedicated study areas. Additionally, the development will host regular free events to foster community engagement among residents.
A Milestone Achievement
Reaching Practical Completion at Fusion Manchester signifies a major milestone for all parties involved in the undertaking. This successful handover exemplifies the commitment, collaboration, and diligence displayed by Domis Construction and the wider project team. Completing such a significant scheme on a limited city-centre site while adhering to high standards of quality necessitated a remarkable collective effort. Andrew Condon, Senior Project Manager at Domis Construction and Project Lead for Fusion Manchester, expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the project’s successful culmination, particularly those who went the extra mile during the final phases to meet this crucial deadline.
Commitment to Sustainability
Fusion Manchester is not just a testament to architectural brilliance but also embodies a strong commitment to sustainable design principles. The project incorporates thoughtful material selections and energy-efficient systems that aim to create a more efficient and future-oriented living environment for students. The design choices reflect an understanding of the responsibility to foster sustainable living practices among residents.
The successful delivery of this project highlights the strengths of the wider Domis Group, with various specialist partners collaborating effectively to realise a complex, multidisciplinary city-centre development. Matic Building Services played a crucial role by providing the full mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) fit-out for the scheme, working closely with Domis Group’s MEP design consultancy, NOVO. Domis Utilities facilitated the project from its early temporary service needs through to final connections, while Wright Landscapes completed the external areas, including the standout terrace spaces that offer panoramic views across Manchester and the paving works that effectively connect the building to its surroundings.
Significance for Domis Construction
Fusion Manchester represents a proud achievement for Domis Construction, Fusion Students, and all those involved in bringing this building to fruition. From the project’s inception, the focus has been on more than just delivering student accommodation; it has been about crafting a place that positively contributes to Manchester, challenging conventional expectations of student residences, and reflecting the dynamic energy of one of the UK’s prominent university cities. Seeing the project completed three months ahead of schedule and ready for the new student intake is a remarkable accomplishment. As Domis’s inaugural PBSA project, Fusion Manchester also marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing growth strategy, demonstrating the potential for what can be achieved when various teams, partners, and the supply chain work in unison with a shared purpose. Kingsley Thornton, Managing Director of Domis Construction, noted that this project exemplifies their ethos: Design. Disrupt. Deliver.
Casana Interiors also made a significant contribution by managing the fit-out and furnishing of all student rooms, as well as the amenity spaces that distinguish Fusion Manchester from other PBSA developments in the city. Delivering this project on a tight city-centre site required meticulous planning, efficient logistics, and close coordination at every project stage. The successful completion of Fusion Manchester is a testament to the possibilities that can emerge when two organisations share mutual ambitions and collaborate as a cohesive team.
André Ferdinand, Projects Director at Fusion Group, praised the partnership with Domis, highlighting their expertise, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to quality throughout the project. Together, they have created a striking landmark building in Manchester that not only embodies the ambition for premium student living but will also deliver an exceptional experience for the hundreds of students who will call it home.