Fablr and The Modernist Society have been announced as finalists at the Manchester Culture Awards 2025, recognised in the ‘Making it Happen – Best Business Partnership’ category for their collaboration on The Modernist App, a free location-based architecture guide that celebrates modernist buildings across the UK.
With the winners set to be announced on 22 November, the countdown is now on – and Fablr and The Modernist Society stand proud as finalists. Whatever the outcome, the recognition reflects a partnership rooted in a shared mission: using digital tools to make architecture more approachable, more interactive and more connected to the communities it belongs to.
The nomination highlights the strength of the partnership between the two Manchester-based organisations, which combined The Modernist Society’s cultural expertise with Fablr’s digital innovation capabilities to create an accessible, self-guided way for people to explore architecture in their own city.
Developed using Fablr’s Pinpoint framework and supported by funding from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, the app enables users to discover modernist landmarks through curated tours, layered histories and editorial features – all rooted in the Society’s mission to make architecture and design more open and engaging to the public. Since launch, the app has continued to expand, with new cities and neighbourhood trails planned for future updates.
Philip Bennison, Founder at Fablr, said: “We’re thrilled to be recognised for a partnership that sits at the heart of Manchester’s creative community. This project has always been about opening up architecture in a way that feels approachable, joyful and rooted in place. Working with The Modernist Society has been a true collaboration, and we’re proud to see the app resonate with audiences across the UK.”
Jack Hale, Co-founder at The Modernist Society, said: “The Modernist App has given us a new way to share our love of architecture and celebrate stories that are often overlooked. Being named finalists alongside Fablr is a huge honour and highlights the power of cultural organisations and digital studios working together to bring heritage to life.”