Hotel Designs took MEET UP North back to Manchester for 2026, strengthening the northern design network while shining a spotlight on technology’s growing role in shaping hospitality spaces…
On Wednesday 18th March, Hotel Designs, SPACE and Event Partner Atkinson & Kirby, headed north for one of the most anticipated networking events in the calendar. Returning to one of its favourite cities, MEET UP North 2026 took over Brickhouse Social, setting the stage for an evening of connection, conversation, and creativity.
Designers, hoteliers, architects, and suppliers from across the UK gathered in one of Manchester’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, ready to exchange ideas and spark new collaborations. Known for its energetic and informal atmosphere, MEET UP North once again struck the perfect balance between industry insight and social buzz.
Guests enjoyed a dynamic mix of networking, complimentary drinks, and street-food-style bites, with conversations flowing easily between both familiar faces and new connections.
But beyond the buzz of the room, it was the thought-provoking content that truly defined the evening. This year’s panel, titled ‘Embracing Design Tech in Hospitality’, explored how emerging technologies are transforming the way hospitality spaces are conceived, designed, and experienced.
Moderated by SPACE Editor Jess Miles, the panel brought together a line-up of leading design voices: Imogen Woodage, Associate Director, SpaceInvader; Leanne Armstrong, Creative Director, Black Ivy Design; and Afsaneh Mehrai, Founder, Mehrai Design.
Together, the panel unpacked how technology – from AI-driven design tools to guest-facing innovations – can be integrated into hospitality spaces in a way that enhances, rather than overwhelms, the human experience. The discussion highlighted both the opportunities and challenges facing designers as the industry navigates an increasingly digital future.
HD and SPACE Publisher Katy Phillips commented: “On a sunny spring evening in Manchester, with the room packed and conversations sparking in every corner, the panel showed that the most successful hotel designs are those where technology elevates human connection rather than competing with it.
“Seeing so many designers, architects, and suppliers come together was a reminder of why we host these events in the first place — to strengthen the industry through real, in‑person connection. Last night proved just how powerful that is. Onwards now to MEET UP London on 29th April.”
As with every MEET UP North, the conversation didn’t stop when the panel ended. The insights shared sparked further discussion well into the evening, as guests continued to connect over food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
With a room full of specifiers, decision-makers, and creative leaders, the event once again proved its value as more than just a networking opportunity. It offered a space to exchange ideas, sense-check emerging trends, and build meaningful relationships that will shape future projects.
As the night unfolded in Manchester, MEET UP North 2026 reinforced its reputation as a must-attend event for the UK’s hospitality and design community – where innovation meets interaction, and business meets a brilliant night out. Check out the image gallery below!
Next up: MEET UP London 2026
MEET UP London is Hotel Designs’ annual UK capital networking event for the UK hospitality and design community. Scheduled for 29th April 2026 at BOXPARK Shoreditch, this evening event offers a dynamic blend of industry insight and connection through social engagement and, for the first time at our London event, a panel discussion to unite accessibility experts with the design and hospitality industry through our Accessible Design Talks series.
Book your tickets to MEET UP London here.
All image credits: Tangerine Photography
