A bold new creative studio is opening its doors this July in the heart of Manchester City Centre, and its founders say it’s built to meet the real, modern-day needs of creators, brands, and communities alike.
Blank Space Content Studio, founded by former Relentless Media CEO and Social Chain MD Katy Leeson and former Time Finance marketing chief and lululemon Run brand ambassador Kate Brown, is a purpose-built content studio and community space located at Bruntwood SciTech’s 113-115 Portland Street, part of the Thread Works development.
With a shared background spanning global agencies, in-house marketing teams, and personal brand building, the pair are no strangers to the demands of fast-paced digital creation.
“We were constantly looking for a space that could keep up with how content is made today but nothing truly fit,” said co-founder Brown. “So we built it ourselves.”
Blank Space features five flexible content zones, including a dedicated TikTok Live shopping and podcast suite, plus fully modular furniture layouts that evolve with seasonal trends. The interiors are curated in partnership with LOFT Interiors, Blank Space’s official furniture partner.
“The moment we heard about Blank Space, we knew we had to be part of it. Creating spaces that actually work for how people create today aligns perfectly with LOFT’s mission to deliver People First Design. Katy and Kate have built something really special here, and we can’t wait to see how the creative community in Manchester embraces it.” added Elizabeth Jackson, brand & ESG director, at LOFT.
“It’s like an Airbnb for content,” added Leeson. “Come in, shoot everything you need for the month, and walk out with a camera roll full of content – minus the stress.”
Blank Space isn’t just about shooting, however. It’s designed to be a true creative hub, offering space for workshops, events, brand activations, and community building. Whether you’re launching a product, running a wellness session, or teaching a masterclass, the studio is built to flex around your needs.
“We’re building a space that makes people feel like they belong,” says Katy. “It’s not just about content – it’s about connection.”
Jack Harrison, commercial surveyor, Bruntwood SciTech, added: “Blank Space Content Studio is a brilliant example of the kind of creative, future-focused business that Thread Works is designed to support, with a concept that reflects how content is made today and where the industry is headed.
“With the space fittingly starting as a blank canvas, shaped by Katy and Kate’s confident creative vision we’ve partnered to create a bespoke, multipurpose studio that brings their ideas to life. It’s a fresh take on what a modern creative workspace can be – balancing functionality with personality and reflecting both the character of their brand and the heritage of the building.
“As Thread Works continues to grow as a home for ambitious digital and innovation-led businesses, we’re excited to support Blank Space as it enters this next stage.”
