In the first of our new series of Broadsider features we chat to Shane, whose beautiful apartment is giving us serious interior inspo…
Hi Shane, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m originally from Nottingham and moved to Manchester just before the first lockdown. I work in the hairdressing industry as a Technical Director.
Talk us through the inspiration behind your beautiful apartment. How do you approach home styling? What kind of look were you going for?
I have a background in art and design, and now working with hair I’m inspired by all things colour. My aim for the styling of my apartment was to have a feeling of fun, with clashes of colour that you might not necessarily put together, and a little bit of camp! Ultimately, I wanted the interior to make me smile when I walk through the door.
Where do you go for new home interiors? Any local favourites?
I’m always on the look-out for new bits. Some of my favourite places for knick-knacks are Habitat, made.com and Homesense. I always take a look in the windows of charity shops too as you can find some amazing bits in there.
What’s your favourite part of your flat and why?
My favourite area of the flat is just behind the sofa in the lounge. I moved the sofa away from the wall to create an extra area for storage, where I was also able to display some of my favourite art and plants.
Most of the art is by my brother, Brett. We both went to art college together. He was furloughed like a lot of us so decided to use his time to create some art and start a new business. You can find his online shop here. My other artworks are from East End Prints and Homesense.
How have you found spending more time in your flat and at Broadside generally over the past year with lockdown?
I moved to Broadside just at the end of December last year which was great timing as it meant I got to spend a few solid months getting to know my new place. Having a balcony and the use of the roof terrace has definitely helped too.
Why did you want to move to Broadside?
As soon as I walked into the show apartment and saw the view I was sold. I really loved the finishes available and the furniture that came with the flat. When touring the building with Steven, I was really impressed with the amenities, especially the roof-top and gym.
What do you like about Broadside?
As I mentioned earlier, I really love the roof-top, and I’m excited to be able to book out the Residents’ Lounge to entertain friends. I have to give a shout-out to the Concierge too – they do a great job of looking after my parcels!
What are your favourite bars and restaurants local to Broadside?
I tend to head across to Cutting Room Square, which has a great buzz. Some of my favourite places are Jane Eyre, Blossom Street Social, Edinburgh Castle and Elnecot. An exciting new addition to the area is Ramona, which has an amazing outdoor area with gorgeous pizza. Sammy’s is a one of a kind cocktail bar that you have to try. We also love to spend a Sunday afternoon in the Gay Village watching the drag queens – always good fun!
What would you say to someone thinking of moving to Broadside?
I’d say don’t hesitate! The location is perfect, it’s close to the Marina, Ancoats, the Northern Quarter and only a ten-minute walk to the Gay Village.
To view our stylish selection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments here at Broadside, email hello@broadsidemcr.com.