Student Accommodation Design, PRS & Co-Living Fit-Out – Square Gardens Manchester
Square Gardens is one of the UK’s largest mixed-use bedroom schemes, bringing together nearly 2,000 beds across PRS, student accommodation, co-living and penthouses in the heart of Manchester. Downing Student needed a partner who could deliver a very large volume of bathroom pods and fully fitted bedrooms, each tailored to different resident profiles and specification levels, while keeping a tight grip on design coordination and version control. With around 120 room types across three interconnected blocks, restricted city-centre logistics, limited laydown, timed deliveries and multiple contractors sharing the site, the risk of clashes, rework and programme drift was high. The client also required ongoing flexibility to refine and upgrade specifications as the scheme evolved, demanding a manufacturing and installation partner capable of handling significant late-stage design changes without compromising quality or timelines.
Complex, mixed-use specifications
City-centre logistics & access
High-volume change control
Scalable, Bespoke FF&E and Bathroom Pod Delivery for a Complex Urban Scheme
Brookhouse provided a fully integrated design, manufacture and installation solution for 449 bathroom pods and 1,786 bedrooms across PRS, student, co-living and penthouse accommodation at Square Gardens. Our team coordinated around 120 room types across three blocks, using precise site surveys and tight version control to ensure every pod and furniture set aligned with real-world structures, services and tolerances. We managed multiple specification levels in parallel, maintaining consistently high QA standards across a large unit volume while absorbing over £2m of client-led design variations after completion with no impact on programme. Through rapid re-issues of drawings, mock-ups and prototypes, and a highly collaborative approach with the client, architect, QS and main contractor, we kept the project moving at pace despite tight city-centre logistics, constrained laydown space and multiple contractors on site.
Early Design & Specification Support
Detailed Surveys & Coordination
Prototyping & Value Engineering
Off-Site Manufacture & QA
City-Centre Logistics & Installation
Change Management & Late-Stage Variations
Everything You Need,
All in One Place
Consultation
We help you make confident, informed decisions with sector-specific advice, site audits, and layout planning — saving time, avoiding costly missteps, and unlocking smarter project outcomes.
Design
Our in-house team uses 3D site scans, Revit plans, and walkthrough visuals to show you exactly what you’re getting — before anything is built. That means better compliance, better function, and fewer surprises.
Financing Support
We offer funding guidance, grant application help, and asset finance options, plus our own Furniture Support Fund to reduce upfront spend and help you upgrade what matters most.
Refurbishment
(Full Fit-Out)
We deliver complete turnkey refurbishments, managing everything from rip-out and M&E to ceilings, floors, and decoration — all handled in-house for maximum control and minimal disruption.
FF&E Packages
We supply fully specified fitted and loose furniture packages tailored to each space — science labs, ICT rooms, classrooms, libraries and more — designed to perform for years to come.
Manufacture
All our fitted joinery and FF&E is made in our own UK facilities and certified to BS EN 16121: ensuring exact fit, shorter lead times, and long-term durability you can trust.
Installation
Our trusted installation teams deliver with speed, precision, and care. From fitted walls and washrooms to complete block refurbishments, we control the quality start to finish.
Aftercare & Support
We offer responsive aftercare, warranty management, future upgrades and loose furniture supply — so your investment keeps working for years to come.
A Proven Process That Gets It Right First Time
1. Discovery & Site Survey
Every project starts with a detailed discovery meeting and (where required) a 3D site scan. This enables the capture of precise measurements and existing conditions - removing guesswork and reducing future rework.
2. Design Brief Workshop
We host a collaborative workshop with your key stakeholders to capture the vision, budget, and any technical or safeguarding requirements. This ensures your goals shape every stage of the design.
3. Space Planning & 2D Layouts
Our in-house design team produces 2D plans with up to three revisions, ensuring the layout is functional and fully compliant with educational or commercial standards.
4. Mood Boards & Finishes Selection
We propose tailored finishes and materials in a dedicated mood board considering durability, hygiene, aesthetics, and future maintenance - all aligned to your brand or building identity.
5. 3D Visuals & Walkthroughs
Using Autodesk Revit and 3D modelling, we provide sketches, renders, and even virtual walkthroughs (where required) - helping you visualise the finished space and avoid late-stage surprises.
6. Furniture & Specification Schedule
You receive a full FF&E specification and product schedule covering fitted joinery, loose furniture, and specialist equipment. This is so you know exactly what you’re getting, and where.
7. Full Fit-Out & Project Delivery
Once approved, we manufacture and install everything from flooring and ceilings to plumbing, furniture and final decoration. We deliver a complete turnkey space with no need for third parties.
8. Handover & Ongoing Support
After completion, we conduct a full handover and walkthrough, with warranty support and optional aftercare packages available. Your space is ready from day one - and supported long after.
Client Name | School Name
