The world-renowned Mancunian architect behind Old Trafford’s future

Few architects have shaped the modern world quite like Norman Foster. A true pioneer of contemporary design, his buildings redefine cities, challenge conventions, and inspire generations. But what many don’t know is that this globally celebrated architect has deep roots in Manchester.

Born in Stockport on June 1st, 1935, and raised in Levenshulme, Foster’s journey from a modest working-class background to the pinnacle of global architecture is nothing short of extraordinary.

From an early age, he was captivated by the industrial landscape of Manchester, where the city’s Victorian grandeur met the raw energy of innovation. That fascination would propel him to the highest echelons of his field, earning him a place among the most celebrated architects of all time.

How Manchester inspired Norman Foster

As a young man, he found himself drawn to the imposing beauty of Manchester Town Hall, where he worked at the age of 16, and spent countless lunch breaks exploring the city’s architectural landscape.

“The Victorian-Gothic architecture was magnificent – it impressed me then and still moves my spirits today,” he said, writing in the Guardian in 2020.  The intricate cast-iron structure of the Barton Arcade and the sleek modernism of the Daily Express building further deepened his appreciation for design. But it was in his local library that he discovered the works of Frank Lloyd Wright and Le Corbusier, igniting a fascination with modernism that would shape his future.

Inspired by Winston Churchill’s words—“We shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us”—Foster saw in Manchester a perfect illustration of how architecture influences lives. Even decades later, he continues to find inspiration in the fusion of past and present, a theme that defines his most celebrated works.

Now, he is set to leave an enduring mark on his hometown once more. Tasked with designing Manchester United’s new stadium, he envisions a ground-breaking footballing arena that could be the largest in the UK, rivalling Wembley. A project of this magnitude is fitting for a man who has transformed skylines across the world.

Who is Norman Foster?

Growing up in Levenshulme, Foster’s childhood was shaped by Manchester’s industrial landscape and the post-war optimism that defined Britain in the 1940s. Despite modest beginnings, his curiosity and passion for design were evident from a young age. He often sketched buildings and was captivated by Manchester’s mix of Victorian grandeur and utilitarian efficiency.

Manchester School of Architecture

After leaving school at 16, Foster briefly worked as an office clerk before completing National Service in the Royal Air Force. Determined to pursue his passion, he enrolled at Manchester School of Architecture in 1956, funding his studies through a series of part-time jobs. His talent soon shone through, earning him a place at Yale University’s School of Architecture on a prestigious fellowship.

At Yale, Foster was introduced to modernist pioneers like Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Frank Lloyd Wright, whose influence would shape his architectural ethos. Upon graduating, he returned to the UK and, in 1967, co-founded Team 4 with Richard Rogers, Su Brumwell, and Wendy Cheesman. This collaborative effort marked the beginning of a career characterised by innovation and boundary-pushing designs.

In 1967, Foster established Foster Associates, later renamed Foster + Partners. The firm quickly gained recognition for its forward-thinking approach, blending cutting-edge technology with sustainable design principles.

What building’s did Norman Foster design?

Norman Foster’s portfolio reads like a who’s who of iconic structures.

From London’s ‘Gherkin’ (30 St Mary Axe) to the breathtaking Millau Viaduct in France, his designs are celebrated for their elegance, functionality, and respect for the environment. Here is some of his most famous work.

The Gherkin

30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin), London: One of Foster’s most recognisable designs, this iconic skyscraper redefined London’s skyline when it was completed in 2004. The building’s unique spiral design maximises natural light and ventilation, making it both visually striking and energy-efficient.

Millau Viaduct

Millau Viaduct, France: Completed in 2004, this breathtaking cable-stayed bridge spans the Tarn Valley in Southern France. At 343 meters, it is the tallest bridge in the world, showcasing Foster’s ability to combine engineering prowess with architectural elegance.

Reichstag Dome

Reichstag Dome, Berlin: Foster’s 1999 redesign of the German parliament building features a glass dome symbolising transparency in government. Visitors can ascend a spiral walkway to enjoy panoramic views of Berlin while observing parliamentary proceedings below.

Apple Park, Cupertino

Apple Park, Cupertino, USA: Designed as the headquarters for Apple, this circular building completed in 2017 embodies sustainability and innovation. Nicknamed the “Spaceship,” it incorporates renewable energy sources and extensive green spaces, reflecting Foster’s commitment to environmentally conscious design.

Hong Kong International Airport

Hong Kong International Airport:  Opened in 1998, this state-of-the-art airport is a testament to Foster’s vision for functional yet aesthetically pleasing spaces. Built on an artificial island, it remains one of the busiest and most efficient airports in the world.
Awards and Recognition

And soon to be… Old Trafford?

Norman Foster has now set his sights on reimagining Manchester United’s Old Trafford, an ambitious project that could make it the largest stadium in the UK, rivalling Wembley.

His vision goes beyond just a football ground; he aims to create an architectural landmark that integrates cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and a strong connection to the community.

His father was a factory worker at Metropolitan-Vickers, then one of the biggest heavy engineering facilities in the world.

Speaking about the project, Foster described it as “one of the most exciting projects in the world today.” With Manchester United’s global reach and fanbase of over a billion people, the redevelopment will focus on creating an immersive match-day experience that brings fans closer to the pitch while amplifying the stadium’s acoustics to intensify the legendary atmosphere.

One of the defining aspects of the design is its openness and sustainability. Unlike traditional stadiums surrounded by vast car parks, Foster envisions Old Trafford as a welcoming, urban space connected by improved public transport links and walkable streets. The stadium will be covered by a vast canopy that harvests solar energy and rainwater, making it an environmental inspiration for the future of football venues.

His plans also include reviving the Manchester Ship Canal to transport prefabricated components for construction, reducing the environmental impact and cutting the build time in half from the standard ten years to just five. The new Old Trafford will be a mixed-use mini-city, designed with fans at its heart and inspired by the industrial and sporting heritage of Manchester.

As Foster put it: “It’s teamwork that makes something this special. It’s a collaboration between civic leaders, engineers, architects, owners, and—most importantly—the fans.”

With this bold vision, Old Trafford will become a global destination, a landmark for Manchester, and a new era for the world’s most famous football club.

Norman Foster Award prize wins

Foster’s contributions to architecture have been widely recognised. He was knighted in 1990 and elevated to the peerage as Lord Foster of Thames Bank in 1999.

His accolades include the Pritzker Architecture Prize, the Royal Gold Medal for Architecture, and the Praemium Imperiale, among others. Each honour reflects not only his mastery of design but also his influence on shaping the built environment globally. One of Foster’s defining legacies is his commitment to sustainable architecture. Long before it became a global imperative, he championed eco-friendly designs that minimise environmental impact.

His ethos—“a building should last forever”—is evident in structures that prioritise energy efficiency and adaptability.

Whether designing iconic skyscrapers, transforming public spaces, or reimagining the future of Old Trafford, Norman Foster’s legacy is one of lasting influence.

His story is not just one of personal triumph but an inspiration for future generations of architects, proving that with ambition and creativity, the built environment can shape and uplift society for years to come.