The resultant abito concept was formulated through a rigorous process of R&D, over a 15 month period including the construction of a full size prototype. A generic design, layout, specification and pricing structure was evolved and has resulted in two locations coming on line in Manchester city centre (completed March 2007) and Salford Quays stimulating very considerable market demand. That demand reflects the availability of a quality product in striking well designed buildings at around a 20% discount to the cheapest one bed apartments in more contemporary developments.
At the outset the brief for abito was to create a visually stunning development, using minimum valuable land space, housing a number of multi-functional apartments designed and built to last, while creating a design classic. The apartments were to appeal in design terms and price range to first-time buyers, young professionals and key workers who were aiming for city centre living.