THE CHALLENGE
Lower Campfield is a Grade II listed Victorian market hall in Manchester, built in 1878, now transformed into a modern creative and tech hub. This building is a fine example of Victorian iron architecture, combining cast and wrought iron with timber and slate roofing. Its rectangular plan and lofty open interior were designed for light and ventilation, typical of market halls of the period. Originally open on the sides, it was later enclosed for exhibitions and museum use. The striking roof, with timber and glass elements, floods the hall with daylight and highlights its industrial heritage. The ironmongery specified by Merlin needed to compliment the modernised contemporary feel of the transformed building whilst also emphasising its industrial heritage.
THE APPROACH
Our popular Prostyle Mitred Satin Stainless Steel ironmongery range (below) was selected for it’s sleek and minimalistic look, complementing the building’s striking blend of Victorian ironwork and contemporary design. The clean, geometric lines of the mitred style echo the precision of the historic cast-iron structure, while the satin finish offers a modern, understated elegance that sits harmoniously within the refurbished interiors. Robust yet refined, the ironmongery not only delivers long-lasting performance for a high-traffic environment but also enhances the architectural character of this landmark project.
THE BUILDING
The Lower Campfield Market building was constructed in 1878 by Mangnall & Littlewood as part of a pair of Victorian market halls near Liverpool Road. Since becoming the City Exhibition Hall in 1909, this unique building has hosted fairs, exhibitions, wartime manufacturing, and later the Manchester Air & Space Museum (1983–2021). It was Grade II listed in 1974, ensuring its preservation despite a damaging fire in 1977.
