Last night, Manchester gained a new institution with the launch of dreamy new digs Whitworth Locke.

The doors of the 160-studio “aparthotel” opened with an buzzy event that was as much about showing off the new venue as it was about welcoming Manchester in, and embracing a city all about community – whether it’s the residential areas or the creative hub synonymous with the city’s culture.

The launch gave Locke Hotels co-founder, creative director Eric Jafari, designer and architect Matthew Grzywinski the opportunity to truly showcase the brand to the city and establish Whitworth Locke as the jewel of that ethos and aesthetic. 

Guests (including indie band Francis Lung and French DJ Jeremy Srouchi) wandered around the studio apartments (afterparty, anyone?), and the dreamy glass hub Conservatory Bar was transformed into a vibrant cocktail party, with Foundation Coffee as the chilled-out space to enjoy live music and unlimited espresso martinis. 

“Choosing Manchester as our third location came from our love for the city, it has a strong, clear identity,” explains creative director Eric Jafari. “This space is just as much about our guests as it is the locals. We aspire to be the city’s destination for the residents – the creative, progressive and media savvy.”