Following the launch of Altogether Otherwise earlier this year in Manchester’s growing neighbourhood, NOMA, the hobby-house has now welcomed thousands of people to over 200 free-to-attend creative activities.

Altogether Otherwise is supported by developer and asset manager MEPC as they further their long-term commitment to the NOMA neighbourhood. Activities at Altogether Otherwise aim to celebrate the sheer restorative joy of bringing people together and doing things simply for fun, and has been welcomed with open arms by the community, offering the people of Manchester a relief from the fast paced, demanding culture that everyone has become accustomed to.

Located on a former disused printing house on Hanover Street, the thriving community space offers visitors a place to pursue creativity and explore new activities, all while bumping into like-minded people in ever-changing workshops and gathering spaces.

Participants can try their hand at a range of free activities, including cooking, wood whittling, and gardening, they can join a club or even start their own, with something happening every day of the week. More recent additions to the hobby-house include a skateboarding club and wool weaving meetups.

Since opening, Altogether Otherwise’s most longstanding club ‘Evening Gardening Club’ have dedicated hundreds of hours to transforming the back yard from a gravel car park into a vibrant urban garden. This flourishing success is a visual testament of the power of joining in and has developed into a beloved neighbourhood space.

Activities held in the hobby-house have seen 12.5 KG of clay thrown every week by The Throw Aways, 800 peas harvested by Evening Gardening Club, over 3000 kilometres run collectively by Eat the Frog, and plenty more fun statistics.

Ben Young, Founder of Altogether Otherwise and creative urbanist, said: “It means so much to celebrate six months of Altogether Otherwise. Our endless activities provide a much-needed escape from the results-orientated efficiency that has burrowed into every part of our lives. We’re a place to simply be.

“Being part of NOMA makes sense for Altogether Otherwise as it’s a neighbourhood which has always embraced the spirit of participation and isn’t afraid to think outside the box.”

Dominique Murray, Associate marketing director MEPC, said: “We have always strived to connect people to places in an authentic way.

“Altogether Otherwise is an incredible asset for the city, offering free clubs, classes and a creative space for anyone who wants to get involved and become part of the NOMA community.”

Join a club or start your own. More information at altogetherotherwise.com.