Now, this isn’t a definitive list. As with most things, interiors are highly subjective so I decided to collate a list of everyone’s favourite interiors in the office.
Sure, there are plenty of beautiful places in Manchester – but I don’t have the time to do Top 100, so here’s our favourite 9…
Dakota Hotel
Whether you’re going for a nights stay or just for a glass of bubbly in the Champagne Room, the backdrop will make you think long and hard about redesigning your whole house. It’s opulent, dark, mysterious and trust me when I say, very, very sexy. There’s a lot of red-brick buildings flying around in Manchester these days, and I love them don’t get me wrong, but it’s refreshing to see a place that is as boujee as this on the outskirts of the trend-hub, Northern Quarter. Like a big old two fingers to the hipster trends. Expect deep and rich colours complemented by an array of textures and luxurious metals. – Alex Watson
CULTUREPLEX
It might be new but it is bloody gorgeous and definitely well worth a spot on this list. From the colour scheme to the plant room at the back to even the Instagram-worthy fitness suites at BLOK, this place has it all. It’s the perfect mix of old meets new in a dis-used warehouse, filled with bespoke furniture and an impressive atrium of the apartments above. Whatever mood you’re in and whatever you’re looking for, you can find it at Cultureplex. – India Morris
Sammy’s Bar
Completely non-descript from the outside, you could very easily stumble past with your head in the clouds and miss this slice of the 70s on Swan Street. Through the doors of what could be a greasy spoon or a launderette, you’ll find a strong orange hue, wood-cladded walls and wallpaper reminiscent of your mam’s teenage photo albums. It’s the perfect slice of retro and will make your Nan say; “Ooo this reminds me of my youth”. – Jake Hardy
Whitworth Locke
A bright, spacious and colourful venue that is the definition of a Pinterest dream. It’s a one-stop shop with a bar, restaurant, hotel and co-working space filled with everyone from locals to travellers. It’s got lashings of modern Scandi vibes while effortlessly mixing in the bright hues of yellow in a chic and warming way that contrasts with all that foliage. – Ciara Martin
John Rylands Library
I don’t think this list would be complete without a nod to at least one of Manchester’s examples of grand architecture. It’s difficult to pick between Central Library, The Town Hall, The Cathedral, the list goes on. But with the Town Hall still being covered in scaffolding, I think it would be an injustice to the others to pick that so I’ve settled on John Rylands Library. It is simply ridiculously opulent. I’m also going to say that Dumbledore’s office was designed based on this. Although I’m not sure that’s true. – Petr Kaiser
Trove
I can live out all my Scandi dreams in Trove. The light wood, concrete floors and simple plastic chairs are what my dreams are made of. There’s just the right amount of pictures on the walls and greenery to transport you into a tranquil space to get your caffeine fix. It makes buying a loaf, possibly one of the simplest of things, a bloody fantastic Sunday experience. – Ellie Edginton
The Refuge
It’s no secret that one of the most amazing parts of the design of The Refuge is the Winter Garden. It’s a bright and simple space and complete with fairy lights you know you’ve seen it appear on your Instagram feed at least ten times. But what amazes me about The Refuge is the effort put in to highlighting the original magnificence of the old building while simultaneously having plenty of modern interventions and eclectic furnishings. The colours of the sofas, chairs and tables perfectly balance the heritage tiling. Next time you go, take a moment to appreciate the nod to the old days and see how it is incredibly complemented – I promise you’ll be amazed. – Daisy Miles
-
- Credit: Maddie Farris Photography
Albert Hall
I actually had no shoes on when I first walked into the Albert Hall because it bloody blew my socks off that fast. Massive archways, incredible windows and that massive organ that I don’t think has seen the light of day in three decades. Still looks mega though. When it was still a Brannigans they covered this whole room up with a crappy plaster ceiling and ignored it. A true crime of the century considering it was let to rot for so long. Oh, and it’s supposedly haunted – which makes it 10x cooler. – Ben Brown
Stock Exchange Hotel
Setting up shop in a Grade-II listed building, you know you’re off to a good and lucky start when it comes to finding a rich abundance of historical features throughout. What can be difficult is intertwining them into a modern theme. With the impressive domed ceiling, original features such as fireplaces, vaults and stained glass windows contrasting with decadent marble slabs and plenty of sports-showing flat screens. The colours are light and calming and definitely luxurious. – Joe Wilson
