Joyful Spaces: The Monastery, Manchester – Rose Campbell, Newmor Wallcoverings

Outside our homes, the commercial spaces we inhabit daily should do more than just function – they should enrich our lives and spark joy.  Our new Joyful Spaces series will form a collection of inspiring spaces, chosen by designers and professionals who share their personal connections to the places that brighten their days.

Each article in this series highlights a personally significant commercial space, exploring its history, design, and emotional resonance through the eyes of the contributor. By uncovering the stories behind these spaces, we hope to celebrate the environments that uplift and inspire us.

This new series continues with a Joyful Space chosen by Rose Campbell, Head of Design & Marketing at Newmor Wallcoverings. In her own words, Rose reflects on the the deep emotional and spiritual connection she’s formed with The Monastery, Manchester, a space that continues to inspire her both personally and professionally through its ever-evolving beauty, sense of community, and powerful atmosphere.

The Monastery, Manchester

“The Joyful space I have chosen is The Monastery in Manchester, the elegance of the architecture and the uplifting atmosphere that it creates provide an enjoyable experience for visitors, who feel a special connection to this heritage site. There is something truly magical and inspiring about this space, on every visit I’ve noticed a new feature or had a different feeling as, the spaces are transformed by décor and ambient lighting.

There is a strong sense of community here, as all of the staff and lucky few businesses based in the offices are fully invested in the history of The Monastery and generously share their time and knowledge, further enhancing the calming spiritual ambiance, I’ve felt an unexplainable positive warmth on every visit.

Designed by E.W. Pugin and built in 1872 for the Franciscan Order. It operated as a place of worship until 1989, when the building and grounds were sold for a project that was later abandoned. The Monastery was subsequently stripped and left derelict. The Grade II listed building was renovated in 1996 by volunteers who bought the ruinous shell for £1, before raising the funds needed to restore this architectural masterpiece. After years of painstaking restoration, The Monastery found great success as a commercial venue, hosting all kinds of events.

In 2020, The Monastery was forced to close its doors amid the Covid-19 crisis. The Charitable Trust found themselves with a unique opportunity. A chance to re-imagine what a modern-day Monastery might look like. How could they serve the community? The answers came from the roots of what The Monastery was originally intended to embody: the Franciscan values of non-judgement, compassion for all life, charity and sanctuary for those in need.

The resulting space is dedicated to serving the people of Manchester both as a commercial and community venue where people of any faith can come together, enjoy social occasions, practice mindfulness, access listening services or just have a coffee in the café and enjoy the architecture and sense of history, I’ve done most of these things!

I only live 10 minutes from The Monastery but had no idea it existed until a friend told me about an amazing gospel concert she had attended there. In recent years I have had the pleasure of attending many memorable events in the space, including my cousins wedding, during which we enjoyed the beautiful outside space while the great nave was transformed 3 times from wedding service to banqueting suite and then finally a party venue where we danced the night away.

I’ve attended several of my daughters’ school Christmas carol concerts here, which made the most of the amazing acoustics, they really did sound like angels!

Most recently, after collaborating with Print Pattern Archive, who’re based at The Monastery. I took part in a panel talk hosted by Design Insider, celebrating the power of pattern. This was a proud professional moment for me, being on my first panel talk in a space that holds so many wonderful memories, I thoroughly enjoyed it and loved seeing the attendee’s reaction to the stunning venue.

I have also been lucky enough to witness the stairway to heaven, an impactful feature designed by architect E.W. Pugin. It is only possible at certain times of day when the sun comes through the windows creating a stairway of light up to the alter. I’m not a particularly religious person but this was an unforgettable spiritual moment for me.”

Rose Campbell, Head of Design & Marketing at Newmor Wallcoverings

Rose Campbell is Head of Design & Marketing at Newmor Wallcoverings, and has over 23 years’ experience in the design industry. Known for her innovative thinking and commercial savvy, Rose has a proven track record of creating trend-led, market-ready products that push creative boundaries while staying grounded in real-world appeal.

Her passion for colour, deep understanding of design trends, and strategic marketing insight have made her a leader in product development from concept through to launch. Rose is especially committed to ensuring that every product retains its narrative and emotional essence, bridging creativity with consumer connection.