Messrs Falkner’s Bridge Street Manchester.

Three storeys of Palladian windows in stone, set in a red brick wall. This set the pace for retail architecture in Manchester

Messrs Falkner’s retail establishment in Bridge-street is also worthy of being mentioned as a successful example of the combination of brick and stone. The front consists of three storeys, surmounted by a stone cornice, under which is a range of small arched windows, grouped three and three. In the two other storeys are Venetian windows with stone dressings, the centre light having a semi-circular head. The doorway has a large arch springing from columns. The window lights are a disproportionate length; and the mouldings, which are rightly enough placed when serving as imposts, should hardly have been repeated where they support nothing. The windows are obviously not intended for the display of goods, being of narrow lights and far apart; but though we do not think that shop fronts, as generally contrived, are desirable additions in any work of architecture in which good effect is contemplated, a little increase of size in the windows, in a building of this nature, would be admissible. We believe a contrary opinion is not infrequently maintained; but the use of large windows does not necessarily imply bad architecture, or there might be some reason to moderate our advocacy of the repeal of the window tax. The interior has the arrangement, which has now become common in establishments of this nature, being lighted from the top, the upper storey forming a gallery round the opening. Mr J.E. Gregan is the architect. [The Builder 6 November 1847 Page 526-7]

Reference           The Builder Vol 5 6 November 1847 Page 526-7