The use of glass balustrades is a feature of some of the most attractive modern buildings in the UK, something that appears not to have gone unnoticed by a developer revamping a prestigious central Manchester building.

Developer Parthena Reys acquired the 350,000 sq ft Hardman Boulevard building from Natwest last year, one of a large number of modern buildings in the Spinningfields business district.

However, despite the relatively modern nature of the building, the developer has submitted a planning application for a major revamp, working with Manchester-based architects Simpson Haugh, better known for designing many of the city’s new skyscrapers.

Architects’ drawings show an open-plan interior with a series of glass balustrades at multiple levels overlooking a wide open central space, with this being at the heart of a widened central core featuring several interconnected terraces.

Proposing to “set a new standard for the city,” Parthena Reys will also add a roof terrace to the building, which will gain the new name of The Metropolitan.

Parthena Reys director Jonas Mallard said the plans “will ensure a building brimming with personality and activity,” adding: “The ground and first floors will be fully adaptable to meet tenant’s need of hospitality, wellness, meeting rooms, collaboration areas, events and workspace.”

If the plans gain approval, work will start in 2025 and be completed in 2026, creating what the developer claims will be the “perfect working environment for professionals in the city”.

Glass balustrades are already a feature of several buildings in Spinningfields, such as the central core of One Hardman Square, but this design may take the concept further, creating a sense of openness and, in the words of Parthena Reys, a “village” feel.

Spinningfields is a 22-acre site that has sought to develop a modern combination of work, leisure and city living, and even managed to achieve a Green Flag award this year for its excellent open spaces. In such an environment, it may be that a sense of high-quality open space inside buildings will feel especially appropriate.