Splashing out with celebratory knees-up
NOW that’s one way to make a splash... Urban Splash cofounder Tom Bloxham not only hosted a right old Manc knees up for 1,000 of the city’s movers and shakers to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his property company – but got fully into the swing of the 1990s-theme too.
At least, that’s how we’re explaining the quite extraordinary outfit from entrepreneur Tom, turning the iconic stripes of sportswear brand Adidas into a trendy suit, teaming it with sandals and topping it off with his signature fedora hat too.
Tom was in good company for the 90s rave at the Albert Hall – calling on original Hacienda DJ Graeme Park and Corrie star Craig Charles to spin the tunes on an epic night of celebrations.
The event was dubbed the ‘Gold Diggers Ball’ as Tom and cofounder Jonathan Falkringham MBE reflected on their rocky road to success, having established the brand in 1993 in a bid to tackle disused and unloved buildings in Manchester and Liverpool into in-demand apartments and workspaces.
The Castlefield-based company has created more than 5,000 homes since then with developments at New Islington, 3 Towers and Castlefield, Irwell Riverside and Chimney Pot Park in Salford, Liverpool’s Ropewalks and Birmingham’s Rotunda building.
The company has also created more than 1m sq ft of workspace and won in excess of 400 industry awards.
Speaking at the bash, chairman Tom said: “I’m honoured really. It’s been incredible to share the room tonight with so many brilliant people – each of whom has their own tale to tell about Urban Splash.
“We’ve worked really hard since 1993 to transform areas and structures that others didn’t want to.
“We helped make the city centres of Manchester and Liverpool viable places to live – when we started out they shut down at 6 o’clock – now they’re filled with homes, bars, restaurants, cultural events and they’re constantly growing and expanding. More than 40,000 people now live in Manchester and I’m pleased we helped kickstart the appeal of urban life.”
The party was attended by architects, designers, Urban Splash colleagues past and present plus their families and friends, who were treated to food, fizz and some custom-designed JW Lees beer with the words “It Will Never Work” emblazoned – a nod to what Tom and Jonathan were told at the start of their journey.
Jonathan said: “Our 25 year journey has been anything but easy, but reflecting tonight, we are beyond proud of everyone who has been a part of the story so far.
“Back when we started out we were told ‘It will never work’ – I’m delighted that we’ve pushed the boundaries and disproved that philosophy.
“Great design, a disdain for the mediocre and a great team has got us here. Here’s to the next 25 years!”