Blossoming Maturity: The Emergence of Manchester's Youth Studio into Adulthood
Youth Studio: Fusing Aesthetics and Atmosphere in Unique Design Projects
Youth Studio, an innovative interior design practice based in Manchester, was founded in 2016 by Liam McGroarty and Oliver Collinge, who met while studying interior design at the Manchester School of Art.
The duo, who taught themselves on the job, starting with side projects, have quickly made a name for themselves by prioritising atmosphere as much as aesthetics in their designs. Their approach is driven by feeling rather than trend, creating interiors that fuse raw materiality with a sense of refined imperfection.
One of their most recent projects is Hyll Hotel, a country retreat in the North Cotswolds. However, they have also worked on a diverse range of projects, from designing a community hub for running brand Voodoo's first physical store to collaborating with sportswear label Adanola to create retail environments that balance warmth and minimalism.
The Sorella project, an Italian restaurant in the heart of Manchester, is a prime example of Youth Studio's unique design philosophy. The team carefully choreographed circulation in the space, creating a moody, intimate setting inspired by Pugliese trattorias. The material palette of stone, wood, and marble was layered with candlelight, textured surfaces, antique furniture, and bespoke freehand typography, resulting in a space that exudes warmth and character.
Another notable project is Arthur House, a 1963 modernist landmark by Cruickshank & Seward, which Youth Studio reimagined for a workplace. The studio layered tactile details such as warm engineered wood and soft lighting throughout the space, while also honouring the original brutalist character of the white-concrete building.
Youth Studio's projects in the UK and Italy showcase their ability to adapt their design philosophy to different contexts, while always maintaining a focus on creating spaces that are both functional and evocative. They reject the conventional route of middleweight roles and incremental promotions, instead choosing to take on projects that challenge them and push the boundaries of their design capabilities.
The Voodoo store, designed by Youth Studio, is a testament to their raw yet inviting aesthetic. The space features a mix of industrial materials and organic textures, creating a welcoming environment for customers to explore the brand's products.
The Adanola project, a collaboration with the sportswear label, combines timber, stainless steel, and stone to create retail environments that are both minimalist and warm. The result is a space that feels both modern and timeless, embodying the Youth Studio ethos of fusing aesthetics and atmosphere in unique and innovative ways.
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