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Blending rich history, reclaimed materials and a sense of timeless escapism, interior design studio Other Side has transformed the basement of a Grade II listed warehouse into award-winning steak and chop house Blacklock’s newest outpost.

The restaurant is housed in the basement of Freetrade Exchange, a Grade II listed building that has stood proudly on the corner of Peter Street Manchester since the Victorian era. An imposing and iconic building that powerfully represents the architecture of the city and its rich history, it makes a fitting choice for Blacklock’s much anticipated Northern outpost. The building dates back to the 1860s when it was filled with the colourful sights and bustling sounds of a Victorian fabric warehouse. “We wanted this Blacklock to feel like it has always belonged here, right in the heart of Manchester,” explains Gavin Mayaveram, founder of Other Side. “Drawing upon the building’s rich history, we carefully balanced old and new, restoring and recreating features to make this space feel rich with history and authenticity.”

“Opening a Blacklock in Manchester was incredibly exciting for us,” says Sam Dagger, Head of Property at Blacklock. “The city’s rich industrial heritage has left behind some amazing buildings, and its vibrant culture and warm sense of community are what it’s so well known for. When the opportunity arose, we couldn’t pass it up. We wanted to create a space that honoured Manchester’s character while bringing the Blacklock experience to life.”

Designing a space that honours history and offers escapism

The experience begins outside, where a glimpse into the basement sparks curiosity. Descending into the cosy venue, guests are greeted by a carefully curated environment that feels both familiar and inviting. Shafts of light from high windows shift the atmosphere throughout the day, while textured materials, muted tones and heritage elements create a timeless escape. It’s a space where time seems to slow, transporting guests away from the city above.

Inside, Other Side uncovered the building’s original timber floors and high vaulted ceilings, showcasing their natural texture and marks of history. Exposed brickwork reveals the fabric of the building’s past, with small sections repaired using locally sourced reclaimed bricks, seamlessly blending into the original structure. These authentic features, combined with deep peacock blues and rich greens in the fixed seating and upholstery, give the venue a character that feels rooted in the building’s unique story. The understated bar, inspired by hidden New York speakeasies, greets guests upon entry, drawing them deeper into the venue. Formed from reclaimed panels painted in thick gloss black, the bar sets a tone of sophistication and intrigue before opening into the main dining area.

The design offers a mix of seating options, from curved booths to open tables, with reclaimed screens and exposed structural columns naturally zoning the space into cosy corners. Each area feels distinct yet cohesive, offering guests a choice of intimate or open dining experiences while hinting at the building’s storied past as a textile warehouse.

The kitchen pass, framed by reclaimed glazed bricks found on site—commonly used in Manchester’s Victorian era—adds a sense of theatre and connection to the dining experience. Guests can view the charcoal grill through vintage timber screens, tying the main dining area to Blacklock’s vibrant culinary ethos. A salvaged mid-century ocean liner serving station, lovingly restored, becomes a striking feature that showcases craftsmanship from a bygone era.

Heritage-infused furniture and curated finds

Every detail has been thoughtfully sourced to enhance the building’s story. Lighting, chairs and furniture, including the waiter stations, were individually sourced from local vintage markets and traders. Hand-picked reclaimed doors add an extra layer of authenticity, while table tops crafted from reclaimed iroko wood lend warmth and tactility. Surfaces and shelves are layered with unique reclaimed finds, giving the space a familiar, lived-in feel. Blackboards and vintage picture lights on the columns echo Blacklock’s DNA, adding subtle charm and reinforcing the venue’s nostalgic atmosphere. Exposed structural beams instinctively provide character, making the space feel as though it has always belonged on Peter Street.

“Using repurposed materials allowed us to tell a story that goes beyond style and evoke a sense of nostalgia,” notes Mayaveram. “These materials bring depth and character which connect the space to a larger narrative and make it feel honest and original from the moment you walk in.”

“Working with Other Side is always a pleasure,” adds Dagger. “Their passion for heritage and meticulous attention to detail truly transformed the space. Together, we unearthed beautiful Mancunian brickwork, exposed ceiling rafters, and repurposed reclaimed cabinets and side tables with care. They struck the perfect balance between our vision and the city’s unique identity, crafting a warm, welcoming space that feels right at home in Manchester.”