Story by Ken Panton

We have expanded the scope of our Style Home section to included exceptional design and standout style, in any discipline, that we encounter and find to be innovative and noteworthy. Our first Style Focus feature is the Velvet Hotel, located on trendy Canal Street in Manchester England. I first heard about the Velvet Hotel from style spotting “Friends of eCityofStyle” on Facebook after posting the details of my upcoming trip. Many people wished me well on my journey to Manchester, a city with a vibrant fan base and I received more than a few tips about the Velvet Hotel, which were all later confirmed my travel planners at Manchester Marketing who agreed that the Velvet Hotel was something to see.

I was instantly stuck with the energy on Canal Street and I understood that this up and coming area has attracted Manchester’s trend-setting artists, merchants, and restaurateurs, bringing with them a vibe that attracts a very happening crowd. It was in the midst of all this that I spotted the stylish entrance to The Velvet Manchester, the famous bar and restaurant that has been a Canal Street landmark for many years, and the entrance to the Velvet Hotel. Once inside I was greeted by a blazer-adorned handsome man, vacuuming in the lobby and I proceeded to receptionist who then redirected me back to the man with the vacuum, co-owner Sunni Syal. Sunni then continued his hands-on efforts by giving me a fabulous hotel tour.

Each of the 19 guestrooms and suites, situated atop the Velvet Bar/Restaurant are individually designed with an English eclecticism complete with nods to elegant modernism, city sophistication, and a bit of irreverence. Each room was captivatingly designed, but my favorite was the luxury penthouse that overlooks the Rochdale Canal. The Velvet’s three penthouse suites are all over 285 sq feet and each features luxurious amenities and decadent design. The penthouse suites feature a mezzanine level, complete with over-sized king beds plus large living and dining areas outfitted for both working and entertaining. Guests will find large screen plasma TVs and an enticingly well-stocked mini bar; staying in is as inviting as going out on the town.

If you need a reason to visit Manchester, in addition to the great nightlife, dining, and shopping, a stay at the Velvet Hotel should be at the top of your list. Plan your stay in advance because this hot spot is in great demand. Space is limited!

www.velvetmanchester.com

To find out what is happening in Manchester check out www.visitmanchester.com. For the best flights in and out of Manchester, I love British Airways.